Although there has been encouraging progress, most Texans still don’t know that cannabis exists as a legal option for medical treatment. Among those who do, even more hold misconceptions about who can obtain access, how they can get it and the state-sanctioned program that has been established to facilitate it all. The Texas CUP — Compassionate Use Program — still commonly invokes notions of strict exclusivity and inadequate scope. Fortunately, the Texas medical marijuana program is actually much more accessible than many think. So what exactly is the Compassionate Use Program, how does it work and who is eligible to benefit?
What is the Texas Compassionate Use Program?
The Texas Compassionate Use Program was signed into law in June 2015, originally making medical marijuana available to patients with intractable epilepsy. The CUP has since undergone several rounds of significant expansion and now covers more than 150 medical conditions, including:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Cancer
- Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- Peripheral neuropathy (Nerve pain)
- Alzheimer’s and other dementias
- Parkinson’s
- Autism
- Multiple sclerosis
- ALS
- And over 150 neurodegenerative conditions
In addition to expanding the program’s qualifying criteria, Texas also doubled its THC cap, raising the limit to 1% by final product weight. As a result, legal and regulated cannabis treatment at a practical therapeutic dose is now accessible for a large number of Texans, with more options for treatment than ever.
Texans can now consult with approved medical marijuana physicians conveniently via telemedicine and fill their personalized cannabis prescriptions at one of Texas Original’s numerous pickup locations across the state.
What’s the Difference Between Medical Marijuana and Hemp-Derived Delta-8 and Delta-9 Products?
Over-the-counter hemp products may vary in potency due to lack of regulation, mislabeling and inconsistent processing methods. Additionally, newer products like synthesized hemp-derived Delta 8, 9 and 10 THC may pose risks for consumers due to harmful solvents and chemicals being added without adequate testing. Furthermore, in Texas, intoxicating hemp products are wholly unregulated. Without any age restrictions, these products can be purchased within walking distance of Texas schools.
Unlike over-the-counter hemp products, Texas Original’s medical-grade products are strictly regulated and thoroughly tested to ensure safety and purity in every batch. All of our medical-grade products are crafted with the highest standards and a commitment to transparency.
How Do You Get Medical Marijuana in Texas?
Interested in getting medical cannabis through the Compassionate Use Program? Follow the steps below to determine your eligibility and get a prescription.
Step 1: Schedule an Appointment
The first step is to schedule an appointment with a physician approved to prescribe medical cannabis. Several physicians offer convenient telemedicine virtual appointments, allowing Texans to get their prescriptions without having to leave home and visit a doctor’s office. Fill out the form below to get in touch with a physician and schedule your appointment.
Not sure if your condition qualifies? Schedule an appointment to have a registered physician verify your eligibility and get a prescription.
Step 2: Talk with a Doctor
Once you have your appointment, the doctor will go over your medical records and confirm your eligibility for a medical cannabis prescription. After discussing your treatment plan, your doctor will add your prescription to the state’s online medical cannabis registry, allowing you to pick up your medicine from a Texas Original dispensary.
Step 3: Pick Up Your Medicine
After you’ve had your appointment and your doctor has issued your prescription, visit texasoriginal.com/shop to place your first order. A TXOG representative will help you select your products and schedule you for a convenient pickup or delivery.
