NEW YORK (WBNG) — New York is making sure physicians have a good understanding of how to counsel patients using cannabis as part of a new, first-of-its-kind facility.

The state is launching the first-in-the-nation center of excellence for medical cannabis and health equity.

The Office of Cannabis Management said people using cannabis should not rely on dispensaries for their medical advice, but many clinicians do not receive a lot of formal education on medical cannabis.

“Dispensaries should not guide patient care,” said Chief Medical Officer for the New York State Office of Cannabis Dr. June Chin. “Clinicians guide patient care. So this Center ensures that medical providers statewide are prepared to counsel patients safely and effectively using an evidence-based clinical framework.”

The Office of Cannabis Management said this issue disproportionately affects communities of color, which typically have access to fewer medical dispensaries.

The new center will work to close that gap and increase education among medical professionals.

Copyright 2026 WBNG. All rights reserved.