If the decision were up to UBCO researchers Zach Walsh and Rielle Capler the current system of dispensaries would remain.

“Our study shows there are people who have preferences for dispensaries especially compared to other illegal sources,” said Capler in a media release. “Our study also provides insight into some of the aspects of dispensaries that the government may want to emulate in the legal framework for both medical and recreational use.”

The Ontario government recently announced that once restrictions come off next year, it will sell marijuana in dedicated stores run by the province's liquor control board.

“Dispensaries are not new and they provide a proven, valuable service,” added Capler in the release. “While some are thought of as a nuisance, in reality many of these dispensaries are small, independent, long-standing businesses who serve a dedicated clientele.”

For their research, more than 440 people who use cannabis for therapeutic purposes were asked to compare different methods of purchasing cannabis on a number of factors such as quality of product, safety, availability, efficiency and feeling respected. Study participants rated dispensaries highly across most categories with the only prominent negative being that the cost of dispensary product is often higher than from a street dealer.

The research has been published in International Journal of Drug Policy.