Georgia Enhances Medical Cannabis with Minority-Led Company

A Leap Forward for Low-THC Oil Access

The recent decision by the Georgia Access to Medical Cannabis Commission to grant provisional licenses to four companies, including TheraTrue founded by Dr. Paul Judge, signifies a major advancement in Georgia’s medical marijuana program. This initiative is set to enhance the availability of low-THC oil for patients with severe health conditions.

TheraTrue, Inc.: A Visionary Company Founded by Dr. Paul Judge

Founded in Georgia in 2019 by Dr. Paul Judge, a renowned scientist, entrepreneur, and investor, TheraTrue stands as a testament to innovation and commitment in the medical cannabis industry. TheraTrue’s approach to operating fully regulated, transparent, and highly professional facilities aims to deliver essential products that improve the quality of life for patients with debilitating medical conditions. The company envisions redefining the medical cannabis patient experience by providing an elevated in-store atmosphere, extensive opportunities for patient education, and unparalleled customer service. At the heart of TheraTrue’s mission lies the commitment to deliver safe, quality products developed at their processing site, coupled with thoughtful, personalized patient care through proposed retail outlets. Backed by a medical advisory board comprising over 20 physicians, pharmacists, and scientists, TheraTrue has also engaged in partnerships with several universities in Georgia and Virginia for research purposes.

Dr. Paul Judge: A Trailblazer in Technology and Innovation

Dr. Paul Judge is a distinguished figure in the realm of entrepreneurship and investment. His career is marked by the successful co-founding of three companies that were acquired and extensive investments in over 60 companies. Notably, he co-founded Pindrop and Panoramic Ventures, and played pivotal roles in TechSquare Labs and Luma Home. His expertise in web security led to the founding of Purewire, later acquired by Barracuda, where he served as Chief Research Officer through its IPO in 2013. Previously, as the Chief Technology Officer of CipherTrust, a leader in email security, he contributed significantly to its acquisition by Secure Computing in 2006. Dr. Judge’s accolades include recognition in Fortune Magazine’s “40 Under 40”, MIT’s “Top 100 Innovators under 35”, Black Enterprise’s “50 Most Powerful Players Under 40”, and several other prestigious listings. As a Henry Crown Fellow and member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network at the Aspen Institute, his influence extends beyond the technology sector. An inventor with over 30 patents, Dr. Judge’s academic credentials include a B.S. from Morehouse College and a M.S. and Ph.D. from Georgia Tech in Computer Science.

Victor E. Mancebo: A Proven Leader at TheraTrue’s Helm

Leading the charge at TheraTrue is Victor E. Mancebo, a formidable figure in the medical cannabis industry. Mancebo’s impressive tenure as President and CEO of Liberty Health Sciences Inc. in Florida is characterized by substantial growth and strategic advancements. Under his guidance, the company experienced a dramatic expansion from 4 to 29 dispensaries and efficiently managed a 250,000 square foot production facility. His leadership was instrumental in significantly enhancing patient service, with Liberty Health Sciences serving over 105,000 patients. The company also saw a remarkable increase in medical cannabis oil and flower dispensation, reaching over 4 million milligrams of oil and 1.2 million ounces of flower. Most notably, Mancebo’s strategic acumen propelled the company’s annual gross revenue from $5 million to over $54 million, translating to an astounding 980% growth within just two years. His experience and expertise are now pivotal for TheraTrue’s mission to meet and exceed patient needs in Georgia.

Embracing Diversity in Georgia’s Cannabis Industry

TheraTrue’s entry, alongside Fine Fettle GA, Nature’s GA, and Treevana Wellness, with Class 2 licenses, signifies a crucial step towards a more inclusive and diverse medical marijuana industry in Georgia. These licenses enable each company to cultivate cannabis in 50,000 square feet of indoor facilities, solely for the production of low-THC oil, catering to a growing patient base with varying medical needs.

Low-THC, High Impact: Ensuring Therapeutic Benefits

The program’s emphasis on low-THC content products ensures that patients reap the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without experiencing its psychoactive effects. This focus is vital in catering to a diverse patient demographic seeking relief without the ‘high.’

Navigating Legal Complexities with a Forward-Thinking Approach

Despite ongoing legal challenges surrounding the licensing process, the commission’s recent decisions demonstrate a commitment to progress within the bounds of legal and regulatory frameworks, ensuring the program’s integrity and future growth.

Provisional Awards: Aligning with Hope Act’s Objectives

The commission’s strategic issuance of provisional awards, a decision upheld through the complex licensing process, aligns seamlessly with the broader objectives of the Hope Act. It underscores the commission’s commitment to expanding patient access to medical cannabis while adhering to regulatory mandates.

Jeremy Fort and Fine Fettle: Parallel Expansion Efforts

Jeremy Fort of Fine Fettle outlines similar expansion plans, demonstrating a shared vision among the new licensees, including TheraTrue, to enhance patient access to medical marijuana across Georgia.

Expanding Patient Access: Pharmacies Join Dispensaries

A groundbreaking aspect of Georgia’s medical marijuana program is the allowance for low-THC product purchases at pharmacies, complementing the existing dispensary network. This expansion marks a significant step in making medical cannabis more accessible to a wider patient population.

Patient-Centric Approach: The Core of the Program

Over 13,400 patients, many grappling with conditions like PTSD, cancer, peripheral neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis, are at the heart of the program. Their needs and wellbeing remain the focal point of these efforts, with a continued commitment to enhancing access and treatment options.

The Road to Access: A Journey Marked by Resilience

The evolution of Georgia’s medical marijuana program since its inception with the initial bill in 2015 illustrates a path marked by legislative developments, legal hurdles, and patient advocacy. The program’s current state is a testament to the resilience and determination of all stakeholders involved.

Recognizing Patient Endurance: A Key Driver

Acknowledging the critical role of patient advocacy and endurance, Executive Director Andrew Turnage highlights the importance of patient-driven initiatives in shaping the commission’s actions. The journey, filled with challenges, has been fundamentally shaped by patient needs and experiences.