NuggMD, the New York-based medical marijuana telemedicine platform, will expand to Vermont just ahead of recreational sales in the Green Mountain State. NuggMD-Vermont is launching its $99 teleconferenced medical-card referrals only days before Flora Cannabis launches recreational sales on Oct. 1, 2022.
“Some think it’s counterintuitive to launch a medical cannabis platform right before legal sales start, but it’s not,” says NuggMD co-founder and CMO Alex Milligan, “California has allowed recreational since 2016 and still has nearly 2 million patients. Most don’t even register with the state for tax benefits. They’re interested in other benefits of having a recommendation.”
Current participation in Vermont’s medical marijuana program is low compared to other states. Roughly only 0.6% of the state population has enrolled, compared to more than 9% of all Oklahomans and nearly 5% of Maine’s residents. NuggM sees drawing more registered patients to Vermont’s rosters — and its service — by educating them on Vermont’s MMJ program benefits.
NuggMD Co-founder and COO Kam Babazade points out registering for MMJ benefits includes exemption from 20% recreational cannabis taxes; the ability to purchase and possess twice as much cannabis as recreational users (2 oz vs. 1 oz); no potency cap (recreational is limited to 30% THC in flower and 60% THC in other products); and home delivery and curbside pickup options for patients only.
“The biggest benefit is having a doctor to guide you,” adds Babazade. “Marijuana is very intimidating to newcomers. It’s hard to know which mode of administration and dosages to take.”