Dr. Oz Announces Launch Of Program Covering Hemp THC And CBD Products Through Medicare
Marijuana Moment • • business
Key Points:
- The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has launched a new initiative allowing eligible patients to receive up to $500 annually for hemp-derived products, primarily focusing on CBD with limited THC content.
- The Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive (BEI) program is available to participants in specific CMS care models, with plans for broader implementation starting in 2027.
- Products must comply with federal, state, and local laws, meet quality and safety standards including third-party testing, and cannot include inhalable forms or exceed 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight.
- The initiative includes strict safeguards such as physician oversight and program integrity requirements, but does not make claims about the therapeutic benefits of these products.
- The program faces legal challenges from anti-marijuana groups, with a federal judge denying a temporary restraining order but scheduling a hearing for a preliminary injunction in April.
