First-Ever Medical Marijuan Dispensary Opens In New Hampshire

The first licensed marijuana dispensary in New Hampshire has started operations in Plymouth. Patients suffering from chronic pain consider the opening as a "historic moment" for residents in the state.

Concord Monitor reported that dozens of people dealing with pain for a long time have been able to purchase medical marijuana from the dispensary. Among them was Laura Vincent, who said the residents patiently waited for this business to open three years after cannabis was legalized for treatment.

"It's a historic moment for New Hampshire, and it certainly makes sense," Vincent added. "It's not like we're desperate. But there are a lot of people who are."

It was added in the same report that the dispensary is expected to serve about 150 registered patients in need of medical marijuana to treat their pain. One of the three companies authorized to operate this dispensary is the Sanctuary ATC (Alternative Treatment Center).

New Hampshire's First Medical Marijuana Dispensary Opens in Plymouth https://t.co/eozG7Pmj8O pic.twitter.com/isQxGqJuEe

— NH Public Radio (@nhpr) May 2, 2016

According to NHPR, another dispensary company Temescal Wellness is set to open two locations in Dover and Lebanon. Prime ATC, on the other hand, will open a dispensary in Merrimack but it is expected to take a little longer pending the approval from the state for it to grow cannabis on the site. 

The same report explained that patients will only be allowed to buy medical marijuana from one dispensary at a time. They will be asked to register on their chosen dispensary but will be allowed to changed locations if they desire. In Plymouth, about 147 people have reportedly enlisted themselves.

"I'm really surprised by the numbers in the North Country," New Hampshire's Department of Health and Human Services licensing manager John Martin said. "We really wondered if there were going to be enough patients in the North Country to sustain an alternative treatment center."

He explained that the way people reacted to this positive development should encourage the state to open up more locations in New Hampshire. He suggested having locations in the North Country or in Keene.