Pharmacies Seek Compensation for Scanning Efforts

The implementation of the European falsification protection directive has introduced significant operational challenges for pharmacies since 2019. Under this regulation, pharmacies must scan the data matrix code on every prescription medication package to verify its authenticity before dispensing it to patients. While the process typically runs smoothly, complications can arise, especially when the software fails to recognize the product number (PZN) for items sourced from other EU countries.

In cases where an alarm is triggered, pharmacies face increased workloads as they must troubleshoot the issue. This may involve contacting manufacturers or suppliers, which can delay the dispensing of medications to patients. In such instances, pharmacies might have to order a replacement from wholesalers to ensure timely service, creating additional strain without any financial compensation for these extra efforts.

In contrast, the situation is markedly different in the Netherlands, where various pharmacy organizations, including the Royal Dutch Society for the Advancement of Pharmacy (KNMP) and the Dutch Pharmacy Cooperative (NAPCO), have successfully advocated for reimbursement for these operational costs. They argued that these expenses are essential for complying with European regulations and serve the public interest.

The KNMP had historically pressed the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport to retroactively cover these structural costs. A 2021 study by Sira Consulting provided strong evidence supporting the pharmacies' claims, revealing that the cost per scan varies between EUR0.02 and EUR0.03, with total annual technical expenses averaging around EUR1,600.

After presenting these findings, negotiations commenced with health insurers, as reported by KNMP. However, the Ministry initially claimed it was not responsible for providing these reimbursements.

Eventually, in 2023, pharmacies in the Netherlands began receiving financial support for the execution and enforcement of the falsification protection directive. Reports indicate that alongside a one-time payment for equipment and scanners, an additional fee was integrated into the general remuneration, the specifics of which have not been transparently disclosed by the pharmacy organizations.