Price Urges Swift Action from Coalition Parties on Health Policy

The president of the German Federal Association of Pharmacies (ABDA), Thomas Price, has expressed optimism regarding the recent proposals from the health and care working group of the potential new coalition government. He acknowledges the recognition of pharmacies as essential points of contact in the healthcare system within the planned coalition agreement between the Union and SPD parties. However, he emphasizes that for pharmacies to fulfill this role effectively, they must be granted financial stability after enduring a decade of stagnant remuneration.

Price highlights that the chronic underfunding of pharmacies has resulted in a significant decline, with almost 20% of pharmacies disappearing over the last ten years. He views the coalition's intent to strengthen pharmacies economically as a positive initial step towards addressing this issue.

In light of demographic changes, Price believes that the expertise of pharmacy teams will be increasingly essential. He supports the initiative to position pharmacies as healthcare centers that can provide new preventive services. Such services are expected to reduce the burden of illness and, consequently, lower healthcare costs for insurers. He stresses the importance of translating the outcomes of the coalition's health and care working group into actionable policies without delay.