Texas Medical Marijuana Program Updates: What Patients Need to Know

Texas is moving forward with important updates to its medical marijuana program, and these changes could expand access for thousands of patients across the state. The Department of State Health Services and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) have finalized new rules, opening the door for additional qualifying conditions and taking steps to approve more licensed dispensaries. These developments signal real progress for the Compassionate Use Program and make it easier for Texans to receive the relief they need.

New Rules Allow Doctors to Recommend More Conditions

One of the biggest updates is that the Department of State Health Services has finalized rules giving doctors a formal way to recommend new qualifying conditions for the state’s medical marijuana program. Until now, Texas’s list of qualifying conditions has been very limited, leaving many patients unable to access medical marijuana even when it could help manage their symptoms.

Under the updated rules, physicians can now submit a request to add a new medical condition to the program, which will be reviewed by state officials who will determine whether it should be approved. This process creates a clear path for expanding eligibility and gives doctors a stronger voice in shaping the program based on patient needs.

Doctors Are Now Able to Prescribe Approved Inhalation Devices

The Department of State Health Services finalized new rules that officially allow doctors to prescribe specific THC inhalation devices within the Texas medical marijuana program. 

Under the updated rules, physicians can prescribe inhalation devices that meet the state’s requirements for safety, reliability, and proper dosage delivery. This ensures patients have access to regulated, medically appropriate options rather than unapproved or improvised devices.

Department of State Health Services has also released a formal submission form that doctors can use to request approval for additional inhalation devices. This standardized process helps keep the program consistent and patient-focused as technology evolves.

New Forms Published for Expanding the Program

The new forms released by the Department of State Health Services allow doctors to submit requests for both new qualifying conditions and inhalation devices, outlining what information is required and how the state will evaluate each submission. Creating a clear and consistent review process is a major step toward responsibly expanding the program while maintaining patient safety.

Texas Moves Toward Issuing More Medical Marijuana Dispensary Licenses

Texas is also preparing to expand its licensed medical marijuana market. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) recently identified nine dispensaries for conditional licenses to operate within the Compassionate Use Program. These conditional approvals are part of the state’s effort to increase the number of dispensaries and production facilities available to serve patients.

If finalized, these licenses could help reduce travel times and increase product availability statewide. More dispensaries would also support growing patient demand and bring the program closer to meeting the needs of Texans who rely on medical marijuana for relief.

Growing Patient Demand in Houston and Beyond

Patient interest continues to rise across major cities in Texas, such as Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio, especially as new rules are finalized and additional treatment options become available.

This rising demand highlights the need for a more accessible medical marijuana system. By allowing doctors to propose new conditions, clarifying inhalation-device rules, and evaluating additional dispensary licenses, Texas is taking meaningful steps toward strengthening the program.

What These Updates Mean for Patients

These changes signal steady progress toward a more accessible medical marijuana program in Texas. Patients can expect:

• A clearer path for doctors to recommend new qualifying conditions

• Access to approved THC inhalation devices prescribed by physicians

• Improved access to marijuana products as licenses are issued, and new dispensaries begin to open

Even with these updates, patients must still hold a valid prescription from a licensed physician to use medical marijuana in Texas.

Stay Informed as the Program Grows

The Compassionate Use Program continues to evolve, and staying informed will help patients make confident decisions about their care. As the state reviews new condition requests, evaluates dispensary applications, and approves additional device options, more Texans may finally gain access to reliable relief.

If you’re considering medical marijuana for your symptoms, now is a great time to learn more about whether you qualify and how these new updates may support your treatment.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana in Texas

Texas has had a medical marijuana program for several years, but it was one of the most restrictive in the country. As of September 1, 2025, that changed, with new rules expanding qualifying conditions, product options, and dispensary access. Texas patients now have more opportunities to find relief!

One of the first ways to benefit from this program is to be prepared to secure your marijuana prescription.

Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our qualified, compassionate doctors. Once we start seeing patients, you’ll meet with your doctor virtually using your smartphone or computer for a telemedicine appointment, who will evaluate your qualifying condition and provide you with a marijuana prescription. Together, you’ll discuss your qualifying condition and how you might benefit from medical marijuana, all without leaving your home.