Ohio's medical marijuana program is about to get a significant boost with the arrival of new dispensaries. These additions to the state's cannabis landscape are not only expanding access but also enhancing the patient experience. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the latest developments in Ohio's medical marijuana scene, highlighting what patients can expect from these new dispensaries.
Elevating the Patient Experience
One of the recently opened dispensaries making waves in Ohio is Saphyre Dispensary, located at 4066 Morse Rd in Columbus. Saphyre is redefining the medical marijuana patient experience with its unique approach and patient-friendly design. Let's delve into what sets Saphyre apart and what patients can anticipate when shopping there.
Saphyre Dispensary's standout feature is its ownership, which brings a fresh perspective to the cannabis industry. Founded and managed by Jacqueline Solomon, a woman, veteran, and minority entrepreneur with a strong business background in Columbus, Saphyre aims to address some of the industry's persistent inequities.
Initially, Solomon didn't apply for a dispensary license during Ohio's first round of licensing, but she did secure a processing license. Patients in Ohio might already be familiar with her products sold under the brand name Kwen Extracts. She realized the challenges of operating as a standalone processor without ties to a multi-state operator or a dispensary to sell her products. This led her to apply for a dispensary license during the second round of applications in 2021, ultimately resulting in the opening of Saphyre on August 18th, 2023.
An Exceptional Space
Saphyre Dispensary boasts an impressive footprint of nearly 8,000 square feet, making it one of Ohio's largest dispensaries. Situated in the former Groll's Fine Furniture store within the Easton District on Morse Rd, the dispensary prioritizes patient comfort and convenience.
Upon arrival, patients are greeted by a spacious lobby furnished with plush seating, providing a relaxed environment for engaging with knowledgeable budtenders and vendor educators. An eye-catching floor-to-ceiling LED screen showcases product previews and special announcements.
A thoughtful design element at Saphyre is the "Phyre Stations" wall located outside the showroom. These stations feature large screens at eye level, allowing patients to peruse menus at their own pace. This design choice enhances the shopping experience, enabling patients to make informed decisions about their medication without feeling rushed.
Inside the dispensary, a substantial showroom lets patients inspect the products they intend to purchase and consult with the dispensary's team of knowledgeable budtenders. The showroom's centerpiece is a bright yellow sofa that curves invitingly across the floor, encouraging guests to relax and take their time. Saphyre also pays attention to product quality by featuring a pass-thru refrigerator for edibles and concentrates. Maintaining the proper temperature of these products helps preserve their terpene profile, as Solomon pointed out.
Wide Product Selection and Contact-Free Sniff Jar Bars
Saphyre Dispensary takes pride in offering a diverse range of medical marijuana products to cater to the varied needs of MMJ patients. Whether you're interested in flower, edibles, concentrates, topicals, or beverages, you'll find an extensive selection of products from nearly every brand available in the state of Ohio at Saphyre.
To further enhance the shopping experience, Saphyre offers "sniff jar" bars within the showroom. These contact-free sniff jars allow patients to smell the flower they're considering purchasing while maintaining sanitary conditions.
Patient-Centric Approach at Saphyre
At Saphyre Dispensary, patient care is a top priority. The dispensary's friendly and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing personalized guidance and assistance to every patient who visits. Whether you're an experienced MMJ patient or new to medical marijuana, you'll receive the attention and information necessary to make well-informed choices about your medication.
Convenience is key at Saphyre, with features like a drive-thru window for registered patients and ample parking surrounding the dispensary. For those relying on public transportation, the dispensary is within walking distance of the COTA Bus Terminal.
Saphyre Dispensary understands the importance of accessibility for patients. It operates from Monday to Saturday, with opening hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Patients with online orders are advised to arrive 15 minutes before closing, while new patients should arrive at least half an hour before closing time.
Vext Science's Expansion Plans
In addition to Saphyre Dispensary, Ohio's medical marijuana landscape is set to evolve further with expansion plans from Vext Science. The company announced its intention to acquire two Ohio-based cannabis dispensaries from Big Perm's Dispensary Ohio, a move valued at approximately $9.8 million. This acquisition includes all relevant business assets and licenses from the dispensaries.
Vext Science, which already operates in Arizona and Ohio, is also raising up to $10 million through the sale of company shares. The company expects major stakeholders, including a notable institutional shareholder and key company executives, to account for more than 60% of the shares purchased.
Eric Offenberger, Vext's CEO, views this acquisition as a critical step toward achieving scale in Ohio. He emphasizes the timing of this expansion as an opportunity for Vext to build a platform that generates growing profitability and cash flow. With a successful track record in the limited-license Arizona market, Vext believes that fully integrated operations, combined with long-term cultivation matching owned retail demand, will secure sustained margins and value.
The acquisition, pending approval, is expected to be finalized by the end of October, with the deal's closure anticipated in 2024.
Why Choose Medical Marijuana?
As Ohio's medical marijuana landscape continues to evolve with the introduction of new dispensaries and expansion plans, it's essential to consider the benefits of choosing medical marijuana. Medical marijuana offers a range of advantages, including:
Quality Assurance: Medical marijuana undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its safety and quality, providing patients with peace of mind.
Legal Protection: Possessing a medical marijuana card grants legal protection and allows you to access medical cannabis in accordance with state laws.
Variety of Options: Medical dispensaries typically offer a wider selection of products and strains to address various medical conditions and symptoms.
Dosing Control: Medical marijuana patients can better control their dosage to achieve the desired therapeutic effects.
Tax Benefits: Some states offer tax benefits or exemptions for medical marijuana purchases.
Access to Expert Advice: Patients can consult with budtenders and healthcare professionals to select the most suitable strains and products for their needs.
If you're considering medical marijuana as a treatment option, scheduling a medical marijuana evaluation is the first step. During this evaluation, a qualified healthcare professional will assess your medical condition and determine if medical marijuana is a suitable treatment. They can also provide guidance on dosing, strains, and consumption methods.
With new dispensaries like Saphyre and expansion plans from companies like Vext Science, Ohio's medical marijuana program is continually improving and expanding. Access to high-quality medical marijuana has never been more convenient.
Make the choice that prioritizes your health and well-being—consider obtaining a medical marijuana card and explore the benefits of medical marijuana for yourself. Your journey to improved health and relief may be just a consultation away.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Ohio continues to expand its medical marijuana program and make residents’ lives easier by passing new progressive legislation. The addition of new qualifying conditions means that many more people will now be eligible for their medical card.
If you think you could benefit from medical cannabis, there is a good chance you qualify!
You need your medical card to access any of Ohio’s medical dispensaries. Not to worry, because it is now easier than ever to get your card with Ohio Marijuana Card!
In Ohio, there are many conditions that may make you eligible for medical marijuana, and we hope the program continues to expand by adding more conditions soon! If you have questions about whether you qualify, we can help with that too!
In order to visit a dispensary in the State of Ohio, you will need your medical marijuana card. With telemedicine, you can even get your card from the comfort of your own home!
If you don’t already have your card, we can help! You can even have your appointment and recommendation on the same day!
Schedule an appointment with one of our physicians today to see if you qualify.
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Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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