By Dispensary Opens in Talladega
Talladega is now home to the second medical dispensary in the state of Alabama. The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission said the opening means more patients now have access to treatment. Callie’s Apothecary recently opened in the city.
Alora Frank, the area manager of Callie’s Apothecary, said her business is all about patient care. They help treat people with qualifying conditions who are under a doctor’s care.
“We are helping educate patients on what medical marijuana can do for them and how it can help alleviate pain and some chronic issues that they’re dealing with,” said Frank.
Patients need an ID and a medical cannabis card they can only get from a certified doctor. The Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission said since June, Callie’s has served more than 800 patients in Montgomery.
Frank spent years in the Florida Medical Cannabis business before deciding to offer a different option of treatment by teaching and educating people on products that are made in Alabama.
Patients Respond to the New Location
Patient John Cabrera said he’s waited for these dispensaries to open.
“I’m a Marine Veteran and I’ve had six back surgeries, so I find this as the best alternative for pain management and my PTSD as well,” said Cabrera.
“Patients are so excited that we are here. They’re excited that they don’t have to travel down to Montgomery any longer. It cuts a lot of travel time off for folks.
We recognize that this industry is very new, it’s a little scary, people are a little confused about how to do things,” said Frank.
Some patients said they’re already seeing a difference after visiting the dispensary.
“Quality of life is a little better. I don’t have to come to the doctor every month to keep traveling from home. I can get what I need for the month or two months and come back home.
Less hassle,” said Cabrera.
Products and What Comes Next
Frank said some of the products come in the form of liquid drops, gel and body creams, and gummies. Staff focus on educating patients about these options.
Callie’s Apothecary plans to open their third location in Bessemer sometime in September. That would expand access to medical cannabis further in the state.
The Talladega location currently operates as the second dispensary in Alabama. The Montgomery location has been serving patients since June.
Patients must continue to obtain their medical cannabis cards from certified doctors to purchase products.
