Massachusetts Allows Telehealth Medical Cannabis Recommendations

Prospective medical cannabis patients in Massachusetts can use telehealth services to receive a program recommendation, according to a Mondaq report. The new, emergency rules come after the state imposed a stay-at-home order and closed non-essential businesses amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In order to provide telehealth services, medical providers must submit a waiver request form to the Cannabis Control Commission and receive the agency’s approval. Initially, the agency was only allowing telehealth options for medical cannabis recertification.

Additionally, the CCC is urging medical cannabis dispensaries to promote their delivery services and “remind patients of the ability to acquire up to a 60-day supply” of medical cannabis.

“The Commission urges licensees to consider, evaluate, and appropriately publicize protocols relative to agent interactions with patients and customers. Relevant procedures include how establishments manage lines and queues, the utilization of mobile or order-ahead features that may reduce the risk of exposure, considering appointment-only operations, and the increased frequency of cleaning and sterilization efforts.” – Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission, bulletin, March 13, 2020

Massachusetts is the only state with cannabis legalization that has ordered the closure of adult-use cannabis shops amid a statewide stay-at-home order. Republican Gov. Charlie Baker has refused to reopen the shops, saying he is concerned about the possibility of people from outside of the state coming into the state to buy cannabis products. Medical cannabis sales are still permitted and the state has imposed safety measures on those “essential” businesses, including increased social distancing and enhanced sanitation practices.