BAV Approves Special Levy for Gedisa Funding

In a recent extraordinary general meeting, the Bavarian Pharmacists' Association (BAV) received overwhelming support from its members for a special levy aimed at financing Gedisa, the society responsible for digital services in pharmacies. This decision was announced by the BAV on February 14, 2025.

The BAV board had proposed that the services provided by Gedisa continue to be funded collectively, thereby ensuring all association members have access. The proposed special levy, as outlined in Section 10 of the BAV statutes, will amount to EUR39 net per month for the years 2025 and 2026, totaling EUR468 net annually. This levy will be charged per business location, while employees of member pharmacies will not be required to contribute.

BAV Chairman Hans-Peter Hubmann expressed gratitude to the assembly for their positive vote, stating that this move is a significant step towards managing the association's digital future. The implementation of a retax interface, expected to be crucial for members in processing retaxations starting mid-2025, is included in the collective financing package.

The previous three-year solidarity financing arrangement for Gedisa ended in late 2024, necessitating a new funding model for 2025. Two options were considered: continuing the collective funding through associations or establishing individual contracts between pharmacies and Gedisa. The Hessian Pharmacists' Association (HAV) had already ratified a framework contract with Gedisa during its general assembly on January 27, 2025, which also includes a monthly fee of EUR39 for a duration of 24 months for its members.

This newly approved special levy by the BAV is anticipated to bolster the financial stability of Gedisa as it transitions to a self-sustaining model while continuing to provide essential digital services to pharmacies.