Colorado Governor May Extend Telemedicine for Marijuana Doctors

Many in Colorado are wondering if Governor Jared Polis will extend allowing medical marijuana patients to be certified via telemedicine beyond May 30. Originally, the order was to expire on April 30, but was extended through May 30. One certifying physician notes that over half of those seeking medical marijuana are immunocompromised.

Pryor and other medical marijuana physicians want to see Governor Polis’ executive order extended through the end of the coronavirus pandemic, according to Westword. There is no definite direction that can be speculated from the Governor’s office yet. The governor’s spokesman Conor Cahill does hint that Polis could be open to making telemedicine appointments permanent if legislation were to be composed.

Cahill said via email that, “Right now the governor is focused on prioritizing the health and safety of Coloradans, which includes providing convenient health care options. The governor will continue to evaluate the need for all executive orders as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds. The legislature would have to act to make medical marijuana telemedicine permanent when the COVID-19 disaster emergency comes to a close, which he would be receptive to.”

Those that wish to continue having telemedicine appointments for medical marijuana certification and renewals are encouraged to contact their local representatives or Governor Polis’ office with their comments.