German Parliament to Vote on Pharmacy Care Enhancement Act

The German Bundestag is preparing to deliberate the Pharmacy Care Enhancement Act (ApoVWG), a legislative proposal put forward by Health Minister Nina Warken. This significant reform aims to modernize and strengthen pharmacy services across the country, with key votes scheduled for the coming days.

Parliamentary groups from the Union and SPD have now submitted their proposed amendments, indicating a broad political consensus for moving the legislation forward. One notable component of the draft is the regulation regarding pharmacy technical assistants (PTAs). Despite ongoing debate, the coalition maintains its position on the controversial PTA representation rule, though recent adjustments to the language seek to clarify its practical implications, which are expected to be minimal in day-to-day operations.

The Bundestag's Health Committee is expected to review the bill and associated proposals, although the ApoVWG has not yet been formally added to the committee's agenda. Subject to approval, the legislation is slated for its second and third readings during Friday's plenary session in the Bundestag.

Following potential Bundestag approval, the bill would proceed to the Bundesrat, with the next session scheduled for June 12. However, for the Bundesrat to consider the law at that time, its Health Committee would need to review the legislation by May 27. If this timeline proves too tight, final Bundesrat approval could be postponed until July 10, the last session before the summer recess.

One of the central issues still under discussion is the planned increase in the fixed dispensing fee--an adjustment that would impact pharmacy remuneration. The Federal Ministry of Health (BMG) could enact this change through a separate ordinance, ensuring a swift implementation. However, current plans suggest integrating the adjustment into a broader regulatory package, which also includes provisions for negotiation processes and the release of certain discounts.

If the remuneration increase is to coincide with the enactment of the ApoVWG, its timing will hinge on the Bundesrat's review. An increase effective July 1 is feasible only if the Bundesrat addresses the matter on June 12. Otherwise, implementation could be delayed until after the summer break.

According to the BMG's latest proposals, the remuneration increase is expected to occur in two phases: an initial rise to EUR9.00, followed by a subsequent increase to EUR9.50. Despite this staggered approach, the governing parties have reiterated their preference for an immediate adjustment to EUR9.50, underscoring ongoing negotiations over the final structure of the fee increase.

The ApoVWG forms part of a wider package of reforms affecting German pharmacies, including changes stemming from the statutory health insurance savings law. The sector is closely watching the legislative process, given the implications for operational planning and service delivery. In addition to the remuneration adjustments, the Ministry is reportedly considering easing certain shipping controls to expedite implementation, with emergency pharmacy services temporarily funded from existing service pools.

The rapid legislative timetable and accompanying regulations are designed to modernize pharmacy operations, ensure the sustainability of pharmaceutical care, and address longstanding concerns over funding and staffing. Stakeholders across the sector are awaiting the Bundestag and Bundesrat decisions, which will determine the future framework for pharmacies throughout Germany.