Everything You Need to Know About Ohio’s Medical Cannabis Program
Since its start in 2016, Ohio’s medical cannabis program has continued to evolve—offering patients safe, legal access to alternative treatment options. Whether you’re just getting started or brushing up on the latest updates, understanding the framework of Ohio’s program can help you make informed, confident decisions about your wellness journey. From qualifying conditions to legal protections, here’s a helpful overview of how medical cannabis works in the Buckeye State.
When Did Medical Cannabis Become Legal in Ohio?
Medical cannabis became legal in Ohio in 2016 through House Bill 523. This law allowed patients with certain medical conditions to receive a recommendation from a certified physician and legally purchase cannabis for treatment. While the law passed in 2016, the program officially launched in January 2019 when the first dispensaries, like Trulieve, opened their doors.
Since then, Ohio’s medical cannabis landscape has expanded, with more dispensaries opening and additional qualifying conditions added. Still, the state maintains strong regulations to ensure products are used safely and responsibly.
Who Can Qualify for Medical Cannabis in Ohio?
To purchase or possess medical cannabis from a licensed dispensary, you must be at least 21 years old. To participate in Ohio’s medical cannabis program, you must also be diagnosed with at least one of the state-approved qualifying conditions. These include:
- Chronic pain (severe or intractable)
- Cancer
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Glaucoma
- Fibromyalgia
- Spinal cord disease or injury
- Tourette’s syndrome
- Hepatitis C
- Sickle cell anemia
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)
The State Medical Board of Ohio regularly reviews petitions to add new conditions, expanding access to those who may benefit from medical cannabis based on emerging research.
How Do I Get a Medical Cannabis Card in Ohio?
To legally purchase medical cannabis in Ohio, here are the steps you’ll need to take:
- See a Certified Physician – Only doctors who have completed Ohio’s certification process can recommend medical cannabis. During your appointment, your physician will evaluate whether cannabis is an appropriate treatment for your condition.
- Register with the Ohio Medical Cannabis Control Program (OMMCP) – If approved, your doctor will enter your details into the state registry. You’ll receive an email prompting you to complete your registration and pay a small fee.
- Receive Your Medical Cannabis Card – After completing your registration, you’ll receive your official Ohio medical cannabis card. This allows you to shop at licensed dispensaries across the state.
- Visit a Trulieve Ohio Dispensary – With your card in hand, you’re ready to explore high-quality medical cannabis products at Trulieve or other state-approved dispensaries.
What Kinds of Cannabis Products Are Allowed in Ohio?
Ohio law permits several forms of medical cannabis, including:
- Oils and tinctures
- Edibles (gummies, chocolates, lozenges)
- Transdermal patches
- Plant material (flower) for vaporization only
- Metered-dose inhalers
- Topical creams and lotions
Smoking cannabis is not allowed. Flower must be used in a vaporization device that meets state requirements.
Can I Grow My Own Medical Cannabis at Home?
No, home cultivation is currently not allowed in Ohio. All medical cannabis must be purchased from licensed dispensaries that meet strict state standards for safety and quality.
How Much Medical Cannabis Can I Legally Have in Ohio?
Ohio patients may legally possess up to a 90-day supply of medical cannabis, as defined by the Ohio Board of Pharmacy. These limits are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect evolving regulations.
Can Medical Cannabis Use Affect My Job?
Employment rights are one of the more complex areas of Ohio’s medical cannabis laws. Here’s what you need to know:
- Employers are not required to accommodate medical cannabis use.
- Companies can enforce drug-free workplace policies and may take disciplinary action based on drug test results.
- Even if you have a valid medical cannabis card, your employer can terminate your employment for violating workplace drug policies.
- In cases of termination due to cannabis use, you may not qualify for unemployment benefits.
Some states have introduced workplace protections for medical cannabis users, but Ohio currently leaves these decisions up to individual employers.
Who Regulates Ohio’s Medical Cannabis Program?
Three main state agencies oversee different aspects of Ohio’s medical cannabis program:
- Ohio Department of Commerce – Regulates cultivators, processors, and laboratories to ensure safety and compliance.
- Ohio Board of Pharmacy – Oversees dispensaries and maintains the patient and caregiver registry.
- State Medical Board of Ohio – Certifies physicians and evaluates petitions for new qualifying conditions.
All dispensaries must participate in the state’s tracking system to prevent diversion and ensure products are dispensed only to registered patients.
What’s Next for Cannabis in Ohio?
Ohio’s program is still developing—and change is on the horizon. Here are a few areas to keep an eye on:
- Expanded Access – Each year, the State Medical Board reviews petitions for new qualifying conditions.
- Improved Affordability – Lawmakers are discussing ways to reduce costs and increase access for patients.
- Workplace Protections – Some proposed legislation could eventually offer employment protections for patients who use cannabis legally.
- Updates to Adult-Use Regulation – While Ohio voters passed adult-use cannabis in November 2023, lawmakers are still finalizing regulations to the state program.
What Are the Benefits of Having a Medical Cannabis Card in Ohio?
Even though adult-use cannabis is now legal in Ohio, there are still meaningful advantages to registering as a medical cannabis patient. From savings to access, here’s why getting your medical card is still worth considering:
- Buy More Cannabis Per Visit – Medical cannabis cardholders can purchase up to a 45-day supply—equal to 4.5 ounces of plant material. In comparison, adult-use consumers are limited to a 10-day supply, or 2.5 ounces. This means fewer trips and more flexibility for patients managing chronic conditions.
- No Annual State Fee – Good news—Ohio has removed the annual $50 state registration fee for medical patients, making it easier and more affordable to maintain your card.
- Save on Every Purchase – Medical cannabis purchases are tax-exempt from the state’s new 10% recreational tax. Over time, this adds up to significant savings, especially for regular users managing long-term health needs.
- Access Faster Service at Trulieve – At most Trulieve Ohio locations, medical patients receive prioritized care, including access to a dedicated express line. That means quicker service and more personalized support every time you visit.
Going Forward Confidently with Medical Cannabis
Ohio’s medical cannabis program provides a legal, supportive path for patients seeking relief from qualifying health conditions—but navigating the system means staying up to date. By understanding your rights, responsibilities, and options, you can safely and confidently use cannabis as part of your wellness routine.
At Trulieve, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need help getting your card, choosing a product, or understanding the law, our team is ready to support your journey with care and expertise.
Sources
- https://med.ohio.gov/for-the-public/medical-marijuana#:~:text=On%20September%208%2C%202016%2C%20%E2%80%8B,purchase%20and%20use%20medical%20marijuana.
- https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/getattachment/9b95d4f0-5512-4bf3-8548-fb557b07944d/Marijuana-Rights-and-Regulations.aspx
- https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/chapter-3796