February patient count sees continued increase, 60,000 cardholders expected by year end

(Albuquerque) – Patient enrollment in New Mexico’s Medical Cannabis Program is continuing its accelerated pace into 2018, increasing by 15,167 patients or 45 percent from February 28, 2017 to February 28, 2018.

According to the New Mexico Department of Health, total enrollment reached 48,821 patients at the end of February 2018. The most common qualifying conditions are PTSD, severe chronic pain and cancer.

The state’s medical cannabis industry continues to make major enrollment gains, while outpacing some of New Mexico’s fastest growing industries in a time of flat population and limited economic growth.

Enrollment is projected to reach 60,000 New Mexicans by the end of 2018, and total cannabis sales are expected to exceed $100 million.

“While the overall New Mexico economy remains in a malaise, the medical cannabis industry continues to grow substantially year after year solidifying its contribution to the state’s economy and people,” said Duke Rodriguez, CEO and President of Ultra Health®. “Growth is never random but the outcome of value, convenience and quality coming together.”

Ultra Health opened its fourth Albuquerque location in North Valley on February 19, selling cannabidiol (CBD) products to medical cannabis patients and the general public. Last month, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared CBD as safe for human consumption and stated it has no known side effects or potential for abuse.