Enrollment gains dramatically outpace sales indicating illicit market activity, public health risks

(Albuquerque) – The New Mexico Medical Cannabis Program patient revenues from the first quarter of 2019 reached $28 million, representing a 16% increase over the first quarter of 2018. Patient enrollment from March 2018 to March 2019 increased by 39%, more than double the rate of patient sales over the same period, according to data published by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH).

Historically, the Medical Cannabis Program has seen patient sales grow at the same pace or faster pace than enrollment year over year. From 2017 to 2018, however, patient sales began to dip below the growth rate of patient enrollment. Today, patient sales are lagging the furthest behind patient enrollment in the program’s 11-year history.

Continue reading “N.M. MEDICAL CANNABIS FIRST QUARTER PATIENT SALES UP 16% OVER 2018”

Black market absorbs need as 1/4 of enrollees are unable to legally purchase consistent medicine

(Albuquerque) – Patient enrollment in New Mexico’s Medical Cannabis Program reached 72,375 patients as of April 30, 2019, marking a 39% increase over April 2018 enrollment.

Consistent double-digit patient enrollment growth shows no signs of slowing down, yet patient sales continue to lag behind at half the growth rate of patient enrollment. The gap between sales and enrollment indicates patients are being forced to purchase marijuana from the black market to meet their needs.

Continue reading “Patient Enrollment Gains Continue Despite Issues With Adequate Supply”