Medical Marijuana Vending Machines

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Although it sounds like something out of a satirical cartoon (I can definitely see Homer Simpson using it), marijuana vending machines are now a reality. The first one appeared at the Herbal Nutrition Center (HNC) in Los Angeles. The HNC is a popular medical cannabis dispensary that strives to bring a positive service to the Los Angeles community.

This Prescription Vending Machine (PVM), which is being casually referred to "the marijuana ATM," will only be available to those with a legitimate subscription. Those who register with the program will be given a prepaid credit card with all of their personal information on it. This card is simply used on the PVM, just like an automated bank teller.

Patients will be able to receive their prescriptions day or night, even if the dispensary it is located in is closed. The machine is located in a secure, isolated room and a guard will also be on hand 24 hours a day, which answers people's concern about the safety of the machine. Further measures have been taken in the machine's design, as it is armored and locked.

Just what is the purpose of a marijuana vending machine? Convenience is obviously the main concern, but owner Vincent Mehdizadeh also says the machine was designed to offer lower prices and anonymity. It seems that there are still patients who feel marginalized for their use of medical marijuana. Perhaps this simple, isolate machine will allow them to access their medication without any embarrassment or fear.

Since the first PVM was installed in Los Angeles' HNC, two other machines containing marijuana have been installed. Also, a similar machine was recently erected at a domicile on the USC campus. Although the latter machine does not offer marijuana, it does contain other medications, in addition to prophylactics.

Everything seems to be going well for the vending machine program, though it may not last for long. DEA Special Agent Jose Martinez recently told the Associated Press, "Somebody owns (it), it's on a property and somebody fills it. Once we find out where it's at, we'll look into it and see if they're violating laws."

Hopefully, there won't be any legal problems for the owner of the vending machines, as it really does look like it's a successful way to provide medication for those that: a) can't make it to their local dispensary during work hours, b) are in too much pain to stand in long lines or c) are too hesitant to openly pick up their prescription in front of a large crowd.

By-line Susan Jacobs is a part-time teacher, as well as a regular contributor for NOEDb, a site for learning about and selecting an online nursing degree program. Susan invites your comments and freelancing job inquiries at her email address susan.jacobs45@gmail.com