Pharmacy Delivery Vehicles Highlight Remuneration Dispute at CDU Party Conference

The 38th CDU Party Conference commenced at the Stuttgart Exhibition Center, drawing attention from pharmacy professionals in the surrounding region. In an organized demonstration, numerous pharmacy delivery vehicles circled the venue, displaying messages about ongoing financial pressures faced by pharmacies. The vehicles bore slogans addressing stalled remuneration adjustments and the critical situation within the sector.

The demonstration was not an official action by national or state pharmacy associations, but rather a coordinated effort by local pharmacy staff. Their main concern centers on the lack of progress regarding the increase in the fixed fee for pharmaceutical services, which had been initially promised in the coalition agreement between CDU, CSU, and SPD. While the agreement outlined a rise in the fixed dispensing fee to EUR9.50 per prescription, this adjustment has yet to be implemented in the current legislative framework, including the Pharmacy Supply Advancement Act and related regulations.

Pharmacy representatives have expressed frustration over this delay, emphasizing that the sector continues to operate under considerable financial strain. Despite multiple assurances from the Federal Minister of Health that the remuneration increase remains on the political agenda, pharmacies are maintaining protest actions until the adjustment is formally enacted into law. The ongoing situation has led to heightened tension within the industry, with many professionals voicing concerns about the sustainability of pharmacy services under current financial conditions.

Delegates attending the CDU conference were met with the visible presence of the delivery vehicle convoy, which was designed to draw attention to the sector's challenges. Although the protest was not accompanied by an official rally or demonstration, the action succeeded in sparking discussions among political representatives and party delegates. The display also coincided with planned protests by other activist groups, including members of a globalization-critical organization, who targeted government officials with criticism of their policy decisions and alleged close ties to industry lobby groups.

While the pharmacy sector awaits the findings of a financial commission established by the Federal Ministry of Health--expected to be released in March--there is ongoing uncertainty about whether the promised remuneration increase will be realized. Pharmacy associations have called for continued advocacy and public outreach, encouraging pharmacy staff to inform the wider community about the impact of legislative delays on pharmaceutical care. The profession is preparing for further protest activities should their demands not be addressed in forthcoming policy decisions.

The situation underscores the broader debate about the financial and regulatory framework governing pharmacies in Germany. Stakeholders across the sector are closely monitoring government responses, as the outcome will likely shape the future provision of pharmacy services and the accessibility of medications for patients nationwide.