5 Smart Strategies to Save Money on Medical Marijuana

Introduction

As the acceptance and legalization of medical marijuana continues to expand across the United States, patients are increasingly turning to medical cannabis for relief from various ailments. However, the cost of medical marijuana can sometimes be prohibitive, especially considering that insurance coverage is not yet widely available. 

Fortunately, there are several savvy strategies you can employ to save money on your medical marijuana purchases. 

In this article, we'll explore five effective ways to stretch your dollar while still accessing the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

#1. Hunt for Dispensary Deals

One of the most straightforward ways to save money on medical marijuana is by taking advantage of dispensary deals and special offers. While the initial sticker price of cannabis products may seem steep, many dispensaries offer discounts and promotions to attract customers and encourage loyalty. You can start by researching dispensaries in your area and comparing prices for the products you regularly use. Additionally, keep an eye out for deals such as wholesale offers, early bird specials, and buy-one-get-one (BOGO) deals. By planning purchases around these promotions, you can maximize your savings without sacrificing the quality of your medicine.

#2. Explore Budget-Friendly Alternatives

In addition to seeking out deals, you can save money by exploring less expensive alternatives to traditional cannabis products. Shake and popcorn buds, for example, are often sold at lower prices than whole buds but still provide potent effects.

Shake consists of small pieces of flower that have "shaken off" whole buds and collected at the bottom of the bag. While it may not have the same aesthetic appeal as whole buds, shake is perfectly suitable for consumption and offers a more budget-friendly option for patients. Similarly, popcorn buds, which are smaller than whole buds but equally potent, provide another cost-effective alternative for patients looking to save money.

#3. Take Advantage of Dispensary Loyalty Programs

Many medical marijuana dispensaries offer loyalty programs designed to reward frequent customers and encourage repeat business. These programs typically offer perks such as reward points, cash-back offers, and special discounts reserved for members.

By enrolling in a dispensary's loyalty program, you can earn points with each purchase and redeem them for discounts or free products. Additionally, some programs may offer cash-back incentives, allowing you to accumulate savings that can be applied to future purchases. By participating in these programs, you can enjoy savings on your medical marijuana purchases while building a rapport with your  local dispensary.

Related: Finding the Best Marijuana Medical Card Programs in VA

#4. Opt for Full-Spectrum Cannabis Products

When browsing a dispensary's selection, you may encounter products labeled as "full-spectrum" or "broad-spectrum" cannabis. These products contain a wide range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds found in the cannabis plant, which work together to produce what is known as the entourage effect.

While full-spectrum products may have lower concentrations of THC compared to other products, they often provide more potent effects due to the synergistic interactions between different compounds. By opting for full-spectrum products, you can potentially achieve the same therapeutic benefits while using less cannabis, thus saving money in the long run.

#5. Consider Taking Tolerance Breaks

Over time, frequent cannabis use can lead to a build-up of tolerance, requiring patients to consume higher doses to achieve the same effects. To combat tolerance and save money on medical marijuana, you may consider taking temporary tolerance breaks, or "T-breaks."

During a tolerance break, you abstain from using cannabis for a period of time, allowing your endocannabinoid receptors to reset and become more sensitive to the effects of cannabis. While tolerance breaks may require some discipline and adjustment, they can ultimately lead to significant savings by reducing the amount of cannabis needed to achieve the desired effects.

Conclusion

While the cost of medical marijuana can pose a challenge for some patients, there are several effective strategies available to help mitigate expenses without compromising on quality or efficacy. By hunting for deals, exploring budget-friendly alternatives, participating in loyalty programs, opting for full-spectrum products, and considering tolerance breaks, you can stretch your dollars further while still accessing the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. 

As medical marijuana continues to gain acceptance and accessibility, these money-saving strategies will play an increasingly important role in ensuring equitable access to treatment for all patients.

FAQs

• Is medical marijuana covered by insurance?

  Currently, medical marijuana is not typically covered by insurance plans in the United States. Patients are generally responsible for the full cost of their medical marijuana purchases. However, some states may offer tax exemptions or other financial incentives for registered medical marijuana patients.

• How can I find deals and discounts on medical marijuana?

  Patients can find deals and discounts on medical marijuana by researching dispensaries in their area and comparing prices for the products they need. Many dispensaries offer promotions such as wholesale offers, early bird specials, and loyalty programs that reward frequent customers with discounts and rewards points. Additionally, patients can sign up for newsletters or follow dispensaries on social media to stay informed about upcoming deals and promotions.

• Are there alternatives to traditional cannabis products that are more affordable?

  Yes, there are several alternatives to traditional cannabis products that may be more budget-friendly. Shake and popcorn buds, for example, are often sold at lower prices than whole buds but still provide potent effects. Additionally, patients can explore products labeled as "full-spectrum" or "broad-spectrum" cannabis, which contain a wide range of cannabinoids and terpenes that work together to produce therapeutic effects. By exploring these alternatives, patients can save money without sacrificing the quality of their medicine.