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The Pennsylvania Department of Health continues to lead the implementation of the state’s Medical Marijuana Program, a vital initiative signed into law on April 17, 2016. This program ensures that patients suffering from serious medical conditions have safe, effective, and legal access to medical marijuana while maintaining rigorous standards for care and safety.
What Is the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program?
Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program was established under the Medical Marijuana Act (35 P.S. §§ 10231.101–10231.2110). The goal is to provide regulated access to medical marijuana for patients whose conditions qualify under the law.
Through this program, the Department of Health oversees all aspects of the industry — including patients and caregivers, physicians, growers and processors, dispensaries, schools, and testing laboratories — ensuring every step meets the state’s standards for safety and compliance.
Accessing the Program
Patients and caregivers can register through the official online registry to apply for participation in the program. Once registered, patients must be certified by an approved medical marijuana doctor to receive their identification card, which grants them access to licensed dispensaries across the state.
👉 Log into the Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Registry (opens in a new tab)
Recent Program Updates
As of March 4, 2023, the Pennsylvania Department of Health’s final-form regulations (DOH Regulations) were published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. These regulations guide the operations of all licensed entities under the program.
However, following a court order in Green Analytics North, LLC d/b/a Steep Hill PA, et al. v. DOH, enforcement of Section 1171a.29(c)(1)-(2) of the regulations has been temporarily stayed. This means the specific provisions in that section will not be enforced until further notice from the Commonwealth Court.
Transparency and Data Sharing
The Department of Health is committed to transparency and accessibility. The program maintains an Electronic Tracking System (ETS) to monitor every phase of medical marijuana — from seed to sale — while ensuring the confidentiality of patient, caregiver, and practitioner information.
Available data includes:
- Program updates presented to the Medical Marijuana Advisory Board
- Aggregate transaction data from medical marijuana organizations
- Number of serious medical conditions by year
This data helps patients, researchers, and policymakers understand how medical marijuana is being used across Pennsylvania.
Resources for Everyone Involved
The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program provides dedicated information for:
- Patients and Caregivers – Learn how to qualify, register, and access dispensaries.
- Medical Professionals – Understand certification requirements and compliance.
- Growers and Processors – Access guidelines for cultivation and production.
- Dispensaries – Review operational and reporting regulations.
- Laboratories – Learn about testing standards and licensing requirements.
- Schools – Explore guidance on administration of medical marijuana to students.
- Clinical Research (Chapter 20) – Discover opportunities for research partnerships.
- Advisory Board Members – Access policy updates and program metrics.
Additionally, Act 63 of 2023 and the Medical Marijuana Assistance Program offer financial and legislative support for patients in need.
Have Questions?
The Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program call center is available to assist you.
📞 Call 888-733-5595
🕒 Hours: 7 AM – 9 PM (ET), seven days a week (excluding state holidays)
Find a Medical Marijuana Dispensary Near You
Looking for a dispensary close to you?
You can view our personalized cannabis plan to find licensed locations near you.
Final Thoughts
Pennsylvania’s Medical Marijuana Program continues to evolve to better serve patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers. As the program grows, it remains grounded in its mission: to offer safe, effective, and compassionate access to medical marijuana while upholding the highest standards of care and compliance.