The first Arizona marijuana medical dispensary opened its door Thursday in Glendale. It legally began distributing marijuana to the dozens of people who waited in line for hours to have their prescriptions filled.

Bill Myer at Arizona Organix. (Photo by Nadine Arroyo Rodriguez - KJZZ)

NADINE ARROYO RODRIGUEZ: The moment Arizona Organix opened its doors, the place was swamped with patients. The new dispensary is set up much like a doctor’s office, with a waiting area and a receptionist who checks patients’ ID and eligibility for the cannabis. Two years ago Arizona voters approved a measure allowing the legal distribution of marijuana to chronically ill patients. On Thursday, people waited in this clinic to see a doctor to evaluate their ailment and determine the amount they’re allowed to have. Bill Myer is the owner of Arizona Organix.

BILL MYER: I looked out and I said this is what this is all about because we had, probably had, 20 people in the waiting room and I would guess that the majority of them were middle aged or older.

ARROYO RODRIGUEZ: 19-year-old Danny came to get his medical marijuana filled. He fears revealing his full name would attract criticism – but admits he was granted a cannabis green card last year. He got it after his doctor noticed his increasing addition to a pain killer for a severe back injury. He says he’s aware there’s a lot of skepticism about the use of medical marijuana.

DANNY: I want people to open their eyes more. Maybe try to look into it more and do a little bit more research instead of just listening to everyone…all the bads, and let’s find the good and then cede out the bads.

ARROYO RODRIGUEZ:  95 other dispensaries were approved. The state health department must okay their final plans before they can begin dispensing marijuana.