Kentucky Dispensary Updates: A Louisville Dispensary Plans to Open This Fall

After years of anticipation and advocacy, Kentucky’s medical marijuana program officially launched in January 2025. With patients now being seen and more dispensaries preparing to open, the Commonwealth is stepping into a new chapter of healthcare access, one that prioritizes safe, regulated options for qualified individuals. Among the most anticipated developments is the upcoming Kentucky Alternative Care dispensary, which plans to open its doors this fall on Bardstown Road in Louisville.

Here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming dispensary, the current state of Kentucky’s medical marijuana program, and why now is the time to get your medical marijuana card.

Kentucky’s Medical Marijuana Program Is Live, Not “Launching”

Let’s clear up a common misconception: Kentucky’s medical marijuana program has already launched. While you might still see some news sources or websites referencing a future start date, the program officially began on January 1, 2025.

That means qualifying patients can already be seen by licensed providers at offices in Louisville and Lexington, receive their medical marijuana recommendations, and submit their certification to the state to receive their medical marijuana card.

This is not a program that’s coming soon, it’s here. The next step: dispensaries stocking products and opening their doors to cardholders.

Louisville’s First Dispensary Is on the Way

Kentucky Alternative Care is one of just two businesses in Jefferson County approved to operate a licensed medical marijuana dispensary. Located at 2401 Bardstown Road, across from the Highlands Kroger, this upcoming dispensary is poised to be a central hub for patients in the Louisville area.

Retail Director Tuesday Couglin, a seasoned dispensary operations expert, said in a recent interview that while the physical store is nearly ready, it cannot open until marijuana products are available from licensed producers in Kentucky. That step is still in progress, as the state’s cultivation and processing operations ramp up to meet demand.

Couglin emphasized that product quality and patient affordability will be top priorities once the dispensary opens, likely in October 2025, though that timeline depends on product availability.

“We are definitely focused on high quality,” Couglin said. “Price point is definitely going to be not out of this world, but we want to make sure you’re getting the best quality for the best price.”

What You Can Do Now as a Kentucky Medical Marijuana Patient

Even though dispensaries have yet to open, Kentuckians can already complete the first steps to legally access medical marijuana. Here's how:

Step 1: Get Evaluated for a Medical Marijuana Card

Patients must have a qualifying condition to receive a medical marijuana recommendation. These include conditions such as:

• Chronic pain

• Cancer

• PTSD

• Epilepsy

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Severe nausea

• Other debilitating conditions

Appointments are in-person only at our Louisville or Lexington offices and can be made by giving us a call, scheduling online, or walking in. A licensed medical marijuana provider will evaluate your health history and determine your eligibility.

Step 2: Submit Your Certification to the State

Once you’ve received a physician’s recommendation, you’ll submit your certification through the state’s medical marijuana portal to receive your official Kentucky medical marijuana card.

With this card, you’ll be legally allowed to possess up to 8 ounces of marijuana once products become available in dispensaries.

Step 3: Get Ready for Dispensaries to Open

Kentucky’s dispensaries, including the one opening soon in Louisville, will serve card-carrying medical marijuana patients only. Getting your card now ensures you’ll be ready as soon as the product hits the shelves.

Why You Should Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Now

While Kentucky’s medical marijuana program is still in its early stages, becoming an early cardholder offers several key advantages. First, it allows you to stay ahead of the dispensary rush. As dispensaries begin to open across the state, demand is expected to rise quickly. Having your medical marijuana card now ensures you’ll be at the front of the line when the product becomes available in your area.

Second, a medical marijuana card provides legal protection and peace of mind. Without one, marijuana possession remains illegal in Kentucky. With a valid card, you’re legally protected and can confidently possess—and once dispensaries open—purchase marijuana in full compliance with state law.

Finally, getting your card gives you access to local healthcare options. Many patients have previously relied on out-of-state sources or unregulated alternatives. Now that Kentucky’s program is live, you can legally obtain marijuana from state-approved providers, ensuring a safer, more reliable experience guided by licensed medical professionals.

Kentucky Alternative Care

Kentucky Alternative Care’s upcoming dispensary in Louisville isn’t just another storefront—it represents a shift toward normalizing marijuana as medicine in everyday communities.

Retail Director Tuesday Couglin says location matters when it comes to destigmatizing marijuana use.

“Nobody prefers to go to a liquor store that’s located in the back of an industrial area, right?” she said. “Part of destigmatizing it is having a very professionally run operation that’s a good member in the community.”

By placing the dispensary in a high-traffic, retail-friendly area like Bardstown Road, Kentucky Alternative Care is aiming to set a new standard for professionalism, patient experience, and community partnership.

Be Ready for What’s Coming

Kentucky’s medical marijuana program is no longer on the horizon, it’s here. With patient certification appointments already taking place and dispensaries preparing to open this fall, now is the time to get certified and stay ahead of the curve.

Whether you live in Louisville, Lexington, or anywhere else in the Commonwealth, a medical marijuana card is your key to legal, safe, and effective access as the program continues to grow.

Get Access to Medical Marijuana in Kentucky

Medical marijuana is here, Kentucky, and we’re booking appointments now!

You can schedule your appointment to see our doctor at our Louisville or Lexington office. Schedule your appointment today to get your marijuana card and be the first to access dispensaries as soon as they open!

Don’t wait—secure your spot and start your journey toward relief. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on the program and dispensaries!