Call for Enhanced Support for Local Pharmacies in Germany
The recent visit of North Rhine-Westphalia's Health Minister to the headquarters of a prominent pharmaceutical cooperative in Essen has brought renewed attention to the challenges faced by community pharmacies across Germany. Discussions during the visit underscored the importance of ensuring stable and robust healthcare delivery, particularly in rural and underserved regions.
North Rhine-Westphalia has recently proposed a new approach to pharmacy remuneration, advocating for the introduction of a supply surcharge designed to strengthen pharmacies in less densely populated areas. This initiative was brought forward in the Bundesrat as an alternative to the existing framework, which some stakeholders argue does not provide sufficient financial predictability for pharmacy operators.
During the industry visit, senior representatives from the cooperative highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the current regulatory environment. They pointed out that the proposed reforms, as outlined in the latest draft of the Pharmacy Supply Enhancement Act, fall short of adequately addressing the financial pressures confronting pharmacies. The cooperative's leadership emphasized the urgent need for fair and dependable economic conditions to ensure the sustainability of local pharmacy services.
Stakeholders from the pharmaceutical sector expressed reservations about the proposed negotiation-based reform model, which would require implementation through federal regulation. They suggested that embedding a negotiated supply surcharge as an additional compensation component within the Social Code Book V could provide greater security and stability for pharmacy operators. Under this proposal, the existing status quo would serve as a fallback, should the parties fail to reach an agreement.
Concerns were also raised in relation to certain provisions of the proposed legislation, such as the inclusion of pharmacy technical assistants (PTAs) in pharmacy representation. Industry leaders argued that these measures do not address the fundamental economic challenges faced by pharmacies and welcomed recent interventions by federal states to reconsider such policies.
The discussions further explored the broader value that pharmacies bring to the healthcare system. Participants noted that expanding pharmacy-led services, such as vaccinations, diagnostic screenings, and assistance with medical devices, could significantly enhance patient care. The integration of digital solutions, including the development of online pharmacy platforms, was identified as a key factor in improving service accessibility and operational efficiency.
The Health Minister reiterated the critical function of pharmacies in maintaining comprehensive healthcare coverage throughout Germany. He emphasized that it is essential to implement strategies that reinforce the role of pharmacies, particularly in light of ongoing sectoral reforms and the evolving needs of the population.
The discussions concluded with a consensus on the necessity of establishing stable, forward-looking frameworks that recognize the economic realities of pharmacy operations. Stakeholders agreed that targeted financial support, regulatory clarity, and the expansion of pharmacy services are vital to securing the future of local pharmacies and safeguarding public health across Germany.