Alabama’s First Medical Cannabis Dispensary Sees Strong Demand in First Week
Alabama’s first medical cannabis dispensary, Callie’s Apothecary, has seen a surge in demand since its opening on June 4. In its first week of operation, the dispensary has served over 100 qualifying patients, with 102 patients making 111 transactions and generating $14,600 in pre-tax sales.
The average transaction has been $131.56, with patients purchasing products ranging from $42 to $52 each. The dispensary has had to limit the amount of products available to patients due to high demand, but has since lifted this restriction, allowing patients to purchase their full 60-day allotment.
The dispensary’s owner, Vince Schilleci, said that the experience has been rewarding, with patients expressing their gratitude and relief at finally having access to medical cannabis. Schilleci described one patient who was so happy to have access to the medicine that they jumped for joy and clicked their heels.
The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission has reported that 481 patients have applied for a cannabis card, with 446 of them having been issued one. The commission has also certified 52 physicians to recommend medical cannabis, with 39 of them registered with the commission and 21 having made medical cannabis recommendations to patients.
The commission is working to increase access to medical cannabis by approving licenses for additional dispensaries and working with processors to develop new products. However, litigation has held up access to medical cannabis, with some firms suing the commission over the awarding of licenses and delays in access to the medicine.
Despite the challenges, Schilleci remains optimistic about the future of medical cannabis in Alabama, saying that it has been worth the effort to see the positive impact it has had on patients’ lives.
