Local Pharmacies Face Challenges Amid Rising Competition from Online Retailers

The president of the German Pharmacists Association (ABDA) has emphasized the critical importance of local pharmacies in providing personalized medication advice. In a recent interview, he stated that medications are unique products with both healing properties and potential side effects, underscoring the necessity for expert consultation at the point of care. This standard is not only essential in Germany but is recognized globally.

Despite their vital role, local pharmacies are facing unprecedented closures, attributed mainly to the challenging economic climate they operate in. The president highlighted that after 13 years without an increase in the pharmacy fee, combined with significant cost escalations, many pharmacies are unable to sustain their business. He noted that a wave of closures is currently affecting public pharmacies, with no clear end in sight.

While the government has committed to raising the fixed fee to EUR9.50, the ABDA president expressed skepticism about its sufficiency. He pointed out that approximately 80% of this increase would be quickly offset by rising operational costs, especially if the minimum wage rises to EUR15. He advocates for a fee increase to EUR12, arguing that the proposed EUR9.50 is merely a small step towards addressing these financial challenges.

Moreover, he suggested that pharmacies should be allowed to expand their services to include more vaccinations and early disease detection, which would alleviate pressure on general practitioners. He believes that pharmacies are well-positioned to serve as a primary contact for patients with minor health issues.

The ongoing issue of medication supply shortages was also addressed, with the president indicating that no immediate improvements are expected. Currently, shortages are particularly prevalent for cholesterol medications, ADHD treatments, and drugs for mental health concerns. He called for a reduction in bureaucratic barriers to enable quicker responses to these shortages.

Additionally, he criticized the role of online pharmacies, stating that they disrupt the supply obligations of local pharmacies. He believes that Germany should follow the lead of several European countries by prohibiting the online sale of prescription medications. Online retailers, due to their geographic distance from patients, cannot fulfill essential community service roles such as providing timely access to medications during emergencies, which necessitates a robust network of local pharmacies.