Dispute Over Fixed Remuneration Increase: CDU Attributes Stalemate to SPD

The ongoing debate regarding the adjustment of fixed remuneration for pharmacies remains unresolved, with political disagreements between major parties hindering progress. Recent discussions in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern highlighted the significance of pharmacies for both regional healthcare provision and local economies. Despite a relatively high density of pharmacies in the region, geographic distances present challenges for residents, making every closure a substantial disruption to healthcare access and economic stability in communities.

During a well-attended meeting in Grevesmühlen, political representatives, pharmacy associations, and local pharmacists addressed the concerns surrounding the stalled fixed remuneration increase. The fixed remuneration, or 'Fixum,' is a key component of pharmacy compensation, affecting the financial stability of these essential healthcare providers. The meeting underscored that although plans to raise the fixed remuneration were included in the government coalition agreement, implementation has not occurred. Attendees emphasized that the issue is not only a matter of contractual obligation but also vital for ensuring the sustainability of pharmacy services, especially in rural areas.

According to participants, the deadlock stems from disagreements within the coalition government. While some parties assert that the remuneration increase was fully negotiated and agreed upon, others claim that further discussions with the federal finance ministry are necessary before any legislative action can proceed. Reports from the event indicated that the Federal Finance Minister from the SPD had expressed reservations, complicating the path forward. Representatives from the CDU reiterated their commitment to pushing for the remuneration increase during the parliamentary process, advocating for alternative funding mechanisms and identifying potential resources within the broader healthcare and social insurance sectors.

Pharmacy associations at the event voiced concerns that the absence of timely remuneration adjustments could undermine the viability of many pharmacies, particularly in less densely populated regions. They also discussed the broader implications of the ongoing pharmacy reform, raising questions about new representation rules for pharmaceutical technical assistants (PTAs) and their potential impact on pharmacy operations and service quality.

Government officials in attendance, including those participating via video link, acknowledged that the fixed remuneration had not kept pace with inflation or the evolving demands on pharmacies. They reaffirmed the intention to address the issue constructively and stressed the importance of continued dialogue between all stakeholders throughout the legislative process. The figure of EUR9.50 as the prospective new fixed remuneration was referenced, indicating alignment with coalition agreement terms, although final approval remains pending.

The event also reflected the broader mobilization of pharmacy staff and professional bodies, with many participants attending in protest attire to demonstrate their concerns. The discussions highlighted the critical role of pharmacies in crisis preparedness and daily healthcare delivery, emphasizing that further closures would negatively affect communities' health outcomes and economic resilience.

As deliberations continue, the issue of fixed remuneration for pharmacies remains a focal point in the ongoing pharmacy reform debate. Stakeholders are seeking prompt resolution to safeguard the accessibility and quality of pharmaceutical care across Germany, particularly in regions facing demographic and logistical challenges.