Denver-based Mary's Medicinals, a subsidiary of MM Brands Inc, announced on Wednesday its intent to participate in the newly established Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) cannabinoid therapy trial programme.

Launched under the CMS Innovation Center, the initiative follows the CMS announcement that cannabinoid-based medicines will be available under the Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive (BEI) programme.

Under the new BEI framework, CMS has established eligibility for products containing up to 3 mg of tetrahydrocannabinols per serving. This threshold allows for the inclusion of non-intoxicating, full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD products.

The programme aims to facilitate access to reliable cannabinoid therapies through established healthcare models under the Accountable Care Organizations (ACO) REACH programme and the Enhancing Oncology Model (EOM). Beginning in 2027, eligible patients will have access through the Long-term Enhanced ACO Design (LEAD) model.

By providing access to efficacious, standardised products, the programme seeks to evaluate the impact of cannabinoids on patient outcomes and their potential as alternatives to traditional pharmaceutical therapies.

"We are confident that the results of this programme will create a formal pathway toward natural alternatives to opioids and synthetic prescription drugs," said Joe Bayern, CEO of Mary's Medicinals and MM Brands.