Alabama’s medical marijuana program is officially moving forward, creating new opportunities for qualifying patients to access legal medical cannabis across the state. Established under the Compassion Act, Alabama’s program is designed to provide safe, regulated access to medical marijuana for individuals with approved medical conditions.
Below is a complete overview of how the Alabama medical marijuana card program works, who qualifies, and what patients can expect.
Overview of Alabama’s Medical Marijuana Program
In 2021, the Alabama Legislature passed the Darren Wesley “Ato” Hall Compassion Act, legalizing medical marijuana for qualifying patients in Alabama. The law created the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission (AMCC) to regulate the program from cultivation to retail dispensaries.
Since then, the state has taken steps to license cultivators, processors, testing laboratories, transporters, and dispensaries—laying the groundwork for patient access.
When Will Medical Marijuana Be Available in Alabama?
With dispensary licenses now being issued and physicians able to apply for certification permits, medical marijuana products are expected to become available to patients later this year. Cultivation has already been underway under strict state regulations, signaling that patient access is approaching.
How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card in Alabama
Obtaining a medical marijuana card in Alabama involves a few straightforward steps:
1. Schedule an Appointment with a Certified Physician
Patients must meet with a licensed Alabama physician who is certified to recommend medical marijuana.
2. Medical Evaluation
During the Alabama medical marijuana certification appointment, the marijuana physician will review your medical history and evaluate whether you have a qualifying condition under Alabama law.
3. Registry Entry
If approved, the physician will enter your information into the Alabama Medical Marijuana Commission Registry.
4. Complete State Requirements
Once registered, patients can complete the remaining steps required by the state to receive their Alabama medical marijuana card.
Licensed dispensaries will then be able to dispense approved products to cardholders. See approved products section below.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
Alabama’s medical marijuana program allows treatment for a wide range of serious and chronic conditions, including but not limited to:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Cancer related cachexia, nausea or vomiting, weight loss, chronic pain
- Crohn’s Disease
- Depression
- Epilepsy or a condition causing seizures
- HIV/AIDS – related nausea or weight loss
- Panic Disorder
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Persistent nausea
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- Spasticity associated with Multiple Sclerosis or spinal cord injury
- A terminal illness
- Tourette’s Syndrome
- Condition causing chronic or intractable pain
A certified physician will determine eligibility based on state guidelines.
Approved Medical Marijuana Products
Unlike recreational marijuana states, Alabama strictly regulates product types. Approved forms include:
- Peach-flavored gummies
- Tablets and capsules
- Tinctures
- Patches
- Oils and topical products
Smoking raw cannabis flower is not permitted under Alabama law at this time.
Licensed Dispensaries in Alabama
The AMCC has awarded dispensary licenses to multiple companies across the state, with locations planned in cities such as:
- Birmingham
- Mobile
- Montgomery
- Daphne
- Oxford
- Cullman
- Talladega
Each licensed company may operate multiple dispensary locations, improving access for patients statewide.
Physician Certification Requirements
Doctors who wish to recommend medical marijuana must:
- Hold an active, unrestricted Alabama medical license
- Complete a four-hour medical cannabis education course
- Obtain annual certification through the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners
This ensures patients receive evaluations from qualified and trained medical marijuana professionals.
The Future of Medical Marijuana in Alabama
Although the program has faced delays due to legal challenges, Alabama’s medical marijuana program is now entering its operational phase. As more physicians become certified and dispensaries open, patients will soon have safe, legal access to medical cannabis.
Final Thoughts
Alabama’s medical marijuana card program offers hope and relief to patients suffering from serious medical conditions. By working with licensed physicians and state-approved dispensaries, patients can access regulated medical cannabis in a safe and legal manner.
If you believe you may qualify, the first step is scheduling an evaluation with a certified All Natural Health Certifications Alabama medical marijuana doctor location near you. Call 800-303-9916 to get started today on your medical marijuana doctors evaluation and card approval today.