Oklahoma cannabis dispensaries concentrated in underserved areas with fewer pharmacies and more uninsured residents

Analysis of 1,046 Oklahoma census tracts found dispensaries concentrated in areas with higher proportions of uninsured residents below the poverty level, more rental housing, and more schools and pharmacies. In interaction models, dispensaries were most prevalent in areas with both high uninsured rates and no pharmacies, suggesting cannabis retailers may capitalize on communities with limited healthcare access.

Cross-sectional analysis of cannabis dispensary locations across 1,046 Oklahoma census tracts. Compared demographic and neighborhood characteristics of tracts with and without dispensaries. Fully adjusted models and interaction models assessed associations with dispensary density.

Oklahoma has one of the most permissive medical cannabis programs in the US. Understanding where dispensaries cluster reveals whether the industry serves communities equitably or exploits health access gaps.

When dispensaries cluster in underserved communities, residents may turn to cannabis as a de facto healthcare option, potentially masking unmet medical needs that require traditional healthcare solutions.

Cross-sectional data cannot determine whether dispensaries caused changes in healthcare utilization. Census tract-level analysis may miss within-tract variation. Oklahoma-specific findings may not generalize to other states. Market forces beyond healthcare access also drive dispensary locations.