By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Access to medical cannabis in Alabama is moving forward as five physicians across the state — including two in North Alabama — are now certified to evaluate and qualify patients for the program, according to a recent update from the Alabama Cannabis Coalition.
The newly qualified providers are located in Huntsville, Gadsden, Vestavia Hills, Foley, and Mobile, giving North Alabama patients new options as the state continues to build its medical cannabis infrastructure.
Physicians currently identified as qualified include Dr. Clinton Scott Williams of Huntsville and Dr. Roger Stanford Buck of Gadsden, as well as providers in other regions of the state.
Under Alabama law, physicians do not prescribe cannabis. Instead, qualified doctors certify that patients have an approved medical condition and may participate in the state registry once patient registration opens. Officials emphasize that cannabis remains federally illegal, meaning prescriptions are not allowed.
For now, patients can schedule evaluations with certified physicians to begin the process. Once the patient registry is fully implemented by the Alabama Medical Cannabis Commission, certified individuals will be able to apply for medical cannabis cards.
To receive authorization, physicians must meet strict requirements, including holding an active Alabama medical license, maintaining controlled substance registration, completing a state-approved training course and exam, and registering with the prescription monitoring system. Providers must also disclose practice locations and pay an application fee.
The physician milestone follows progress on the dispensing side. According to reporting by Associated Press, the commission approved licenses for three dispensary companies late last year and is considering a fourth. Commission Chairman Rex Vaughn said products could become available as early as spring 2026 if remaining steps stay on schedule.
Each licensed company may operate up to three storefronts statewide. State leaders say expanding physician certifications and launching the patient registry are key steps toward ensuring safe, regulated access for eligible patients.
Community advocates say the program could bring relief to residents living with chronic conditions while also strengthening health care access and economic opportunity across the state.