What Is a Medical Marijuana Store?

A medical marijuana store is a business that sells cannabis to registered patients with a doctor’s recommendation. Medical dispensaries offer a variety of medical marijuana products including flower, edibles, vape pens, and concentrates.

The term is derived from tuberculosis dispensaries (Turkish: verem savas dispanseri) which were established in Turkey in 1923 as part of a nationwide program to eradicate the disease. The dispensaries distributed free syringes to tuberculosis patients and provided information on the treatment process.

Recreational legalization has brought marijuana dispensaries, or cannabis stores, to the streets of many U.S. cities, but there is a difference between a dispensary and a store that is important to understand not only as a consumer but also as an entrepreneur looking to enter the industry.

When entering a dispensary, you’ll typically be greeted by security and then a receptionist who will verify that you are of age. If you have a medical marijuana recommendation, the receptionist will direct you to a designated area of the store to pick out your product.

If you don’t have a medical marijuana recommendation, recreational dispensaries can provide you with educational materials and assist you in finding the right product for your needs. The staff at each store is trained to answer questions about the product lineup, its effects, and proper use.

In New York, you can purchase recreational cannabis online or in person at a licensed retail store. You can find a list of stores at the OCM website. If you have a medical marijuana card, you must show your identification to the retailer at the time of purchase. You can bring the ID in a state-issued photo or digital format. You can also carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription or a letter from a medical provider stating that you have a qualifying condition. medical marijuana store