Since the legalization of medical cannabis in Utah nearly five years ago, the number of cannabis cardholders has steadily increased each year. The Utah Department of Health (UDOH) reported 66,749 active cannabis cardholders in March 2023, up from 58,937 in October 2022. However, the financial burden associated with being a cannabis cardholder in Utah is significant, causing some individuals to forgo participation due to affordability issues. Despite having qualifying conditions, many patients in Utah either cannot afford or choose not to participate in the state’s medical cannabis program. As a result, some patients turn to the black market or seek cannabis in other legal states, while others have no access to the treatment they require.
The annual costs for cannabis patients in Utah include initial evaluations, Qualified Medical Provider (QMP) fees, renewal fees, and average dispensary expenditures. Comparisons with other medical cannabis states reveal Utah’s costs and fees to be relatively high.
Obtaining a medical cannabis card in Utah requires an initial evaluation by a personal doctor or a QMP. Insurance coverage for medical cannabis is generally unavailable, making the cost an out-of-pocket expense for patients. Many patients prefer a QMP to maintain privacy regarding their cannabis use. Fees for these evaluations vary widely, with UDOH reporting a minimum fee of $10 and a maximum fee of $450. On average, patients pay around $201 for this assessment. This expense can be particularly burdensome for individuals on disability or with a fixed income.
Once approved for a cannabis card, patients need to renew it periodically, typically every six months, although those in the program for at least a year may qualify for a one-year renewal. Renewal fees range from $5 to $250, with an average cost of $128. Although not as high as the initial evaluation fee, this recurring expense adds up over time. Recent legislative changes have extended the renewal time frame to at least a year, alleviating some of these annual costs.
Patient spending in dispensaries varies based on medical condition and product type. According to Utahmarijuana.org, patients commonly spend between $100 and $200 per month, though current prices are likely higher.
A small informal online survey with 14 respondents indicated registration and QMP fees ranging from $15 to $370 per year, averaging $205.34. Product expenses ranged from $80 to $450 per month, averaging $329.29. Some respondents choose not to participate in Utah’s medical cannabis program due to its cost. For instance, Utah resident Lea Clouse finds the cost nearly double that of Colorado, with subpar product quality. Others, like Chelsey L. Morgan, prioritize bills and childcare over medical cannabis, especially given allergies to most prescription medications.
Comparing Utah’s cannabis costs to other states reveals that while overall product costs are similar, Utah is more expensive for basic forms of medical cannabis, such as flower. A report by the Utah Cannabis Association and Utah Cannabis Co-Op showed Utah’s average price for 3.5 grams of flower at $51.72, above the national average of $44.85, with only Hawaii being more expensive at $60.13. Utah also prohibits smoking, requiring patients to purchase a dry herb vaporizer, adding another expense.
In contrast, an Arizona resident pays $200 every two years for a medical cannabis card, covering the doctor’s visit and recommendation. Benjamin Adams, a writer for High Times magazine who moved from California to Utah, shared that his annual card renewal cost in Long Beach, CA, was $40, compared to $355 per year in Utah. Adams commented on the disparity, stating, “In my opinion, Utah’s medical cannabis system needs to lower the overall cost for a QMP consultation. Compared to other state medical cannabis programs, the doctor or nurse practitioner visit takes much longer in Utah. It’s as though the extra steps and fees are there because lawmakers and regulators in Utah don’t fully believe in it.”
Despite the consistent rise in cardholders, Utah’s renewal rate among patients is declining. In January 2023, out of 63,622 new patients, only approximately 8,000 renewed their cards. Similarly, in December 2022, 61,991 new registered patients yielded about 7,000 renewals. This low renewal rate raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of the program.
A primary advantage of a medical cannabis program is its tax-free nature and focus on providing assistance to those with medical conditions. However, Utah’s burdensome fees and inconveniences undermine the essence of a medical program, creating a “pay-to-play” system that restricts access to those with substantial financial resources.
