Minister Stolz Advocates for Strengthening Local Pharmacies

The Health Minister of Hesse, Diana Stolz, has emphasized the importance of enhancing local pharmacies as part of a broader reform initiative. In a recent statement, Stolz expressed her support for the upcoming pharmacy reform law, which Federal Health Minister Nina Warken plans to present at the German Pharmacists' Day on September 16. Stolz underscored that the reform represents a significant opportunity to ensure that pharmacies remain accessible and functional across the country.

Stolz called upon the Federal Ministry of Health to implement the agreed-upon measures outlined in the coalition agreement between the Union and the SPD. She stated that pharmacies are vital for providing accessible and high-quality healthcare services, acting as essential components of the overall health system.

Furthermore, Stolz highlighted the reform as a crucial signal to both pharmacy professionals and the general public, indicating that the health ministry is prioritizing pharmacy-related issues at the beginning of Warken's term. She noted the pressing need for action to sustain pharmacies, particularly in rural areas where they often serve as the primary healthcare access point for residents.

Despite the anticipation surrounding the reform, Stolz noted that many in the pharmacy community had hoped for immediate relief measures prior to the introduction of the reform law. She mentioned that a one-time fee increase could have been facilitated through an adjustment of the Drug Price Regulation without requiring new legislation. Additionally, a prompt response to the recent ruling by the Federal Court of Justice regarding pharmacy discounts was also expected but has yet to be delivered.

Stolz, who has been actively involved in negotiating health-related aspects of the coalition agreement, has consistently brought the concerns of Hesse's pharmacy community to Berlin. She identified three key areas that require urgent attention: appropriate remuneration, reduction of bureaucratic burdens, and enhancement of pharmacies' healthcare roles.

She asserted that securing a fair and regularly updated remuneration structure is crucial for maintaining the economic viability of local pharmacies, which is especially important for providing services in under-resourced regions. Furthermore, Stolz advocated for the simplification of administrative requirements, including documentation obligations and cost estimate procedures for medical supplies. She also called for a review of exchange obligations within discount agreements to better align with the realities of healthcare provision.

In addition to these reforms, Stolz emphasized the potential for pharmacies to expand their pharmaceutical services, contributing further to health prevention and care efforts. She argued that enabling pharmacies to operate under favorable legal and financial conditions is essential for their continued evolution.

Overall, Stolz insists that the proposed pharmacy reform must not only secure the future of local pharmacies but also alleviate the burden on patients. Her vision includes ensuring reliable access to medications, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and increasing direct services available through pharmacies.

She concluded that the forthcoming reform presents a vital opportunity to bolster the economic foundation of pharmacies, enhance their professional role, and ultimately support patients in their healthcare journey.