Despite continued scrutiny from lawmakers in Washington, D.C., and Pierre, South Dakota’s medical marijuana industry continues to expand. While recreational marijuana remains illegal, nearly 19,000 residents now have legal access for medical use, where transparency from diagnosis to dispensary remains key.
State Department of Health data shows 70% of patients qualify due to severe, debilitating pain, followed by PTSD at 13%. Patients must receive an in-person evaluation, with practitioners reviewing medical history and determining eligibility. If approved, practitioners must also confirm medical cannabis could benefit the patient. The state reports a 62% year-over-year increase in approved medical cards and says access to qualified practitioners has not been an issue statewide.
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