Medical cannabis is now legal in Kentucky, but hospitals, including Owensboro Health facilities, cannot store, dispense, or allow its use on-site. Patients with qualifying conditions can obtain a written certification from a physician and register for a state-issued medical cannabis card, but they will not be permitted to use medical cannabis as part of their treatment while hospitalized.
As of Jan. 1, 2025, individuals with conditions such as cancer, chronic pain, seizure disorders, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, and chronic nausea can purchase medical cannabis from state-licensed dispensaries.
Owensboro Health has been working closely with state officials to ensure compliance with the new law while prioritizing patient safety. Jason Collins, executive director of pharmacy at Owensboro Health, has led efforts to develop policies and educate patients, providers, and the community about the law’s impact.
“We are not encouraging or discouraging medical cannabis use,” Collins said. “Our role is to support our providers in making the best decisions for their patients while ensuring everyone understands the legal and medical framework.”
Under the law, patients must first see a certified provider in person to obtain a medical cannabis certification. Afterward, they can register on the state’s official website, kymedcan.ky.gov, to receive a digital medical cannabis card. The law does not classify medical cannabis as a prescription drug, meaning pharmacies, including those at hospitals and clinics, cannot dispense it. Instead, patients must purchase products from approved dispensaries in designated counties.
Collins emphasized that while medical cannabis is now legal at the state level, it remains classified as a Schedule I substance under federal law. This means hospitals, including Owensboro Health facilities, cannot store, dispense, or allow its use on-site. Patients admitted to the hospital will need to use alternative treatments while receiving care.
“If a patient brings medical cannabis to the hospital, it will be treated as contraband,” Collins said. “We want to ensure patients understand this in advance to avoid confusion or frustration.”
Another common misconception, Collins noted, is that the law does not legalize all forms of cannabis use. Smoking marijuana remains prohibited, and only specific forms, such as gummies and infused teas, are allowed for medical use.
As medical cannabis becomes more widely available, Owensboro Health expects more patients to seek information about the program. Collins encourages anyone considering medical cannabis to visit kymedcan.ky.gov to find certified providers and understand the program’s requirements.
“This law is evolving quickly, and it’s important for both patients and providers to stay informed,” Collins said. “We are committed to helping our community navigate these changes with accurate information and a focus on patient care.”
