Urgent Need for Reform in German Pharmacy Sector Amidst Financial Strain

At the recent German Pharmacists' Day (DAT) held in Düsseldorf, Health Minister Nina Warken outlined essential points for the pharmacy reform. However, the anticipated increase in the base fee for pharmacy services to EUR9.50 was notably absent, leading to disappointment among pharmacists.

Reactions from various pharmacist associations, including the Brandenburg State Chamber of Pharmacists and the pharmacist associations from Niedersachsen and Hessen, expressed significant criticism regarding the lack of a fee increase. Niedersachsen's Health Minister Andreas Philippi also voiced his concerns, emphasizing the urgent need for financial support for pharmacies to ensure accessible healthcare services, especially in rural areas.

Philippi highlighted that the increase in the base fee is crucial for maintaining a viable pharmacy system. He noted that without such support, the sustainability of local pharmacies, particularly in rural regions, faces severe challenges due to the changing demographics and the growing requirement for delivery services to cater to an aging, less mobile population.

In contrast, the Niedersachsen State Pharmacists' Association (LAV) condemned the proposed reforms without a corresponding increase in fees. The LAV called upon policymakers to implement the promised fee adjustments and regular updates as per the coalition agreement. The LAV's chairman criticized the government's financial excuses, suggesting they are mere pretexts for shirking responsibility.

Concerns were raised that delaying the fee increase while simultaneously attempting to reform the pharmacy system could indicate an intentional push towards a decline in local pharmacies. The LAV underscored that without adequate financial support, pharmacies would struggle to engage in preventative healthcare roles, as they cannot afford the necessary investments in personnel, infrastructure, or training.

Furthermore, the LAV demanded an increase in the base fee to at least EUR12, arguing that the government's current financial strategies signal a lack of investment commitment in the pharmacy sector. They pointed out that the redistribution of funds from the remuneration pot to emergency and on-call services illustrates a troubling trend.

In a positive note, Jens Dobbert, president of the Brandenburg State Chamber of Pharmacists, acknowledged the minister's personal attendance at the pharmacists' assembly, recognizing it as a sign of respect towards the profession. However, he reiterated that the absence of vital economic stabilization measures for pharmacies remains a significant concern. He called for effective policies to combat competitive disadvantages posed by foreign online pharmacies, stating that mere financial adjustments are insufficient without a robust strategy to enhance local pharmacy viability.

The Hessian Pharmacists' Association (HAV) echoed similar sentiments, demanding a clear timeline for fee adjustments and immediate relief measures. While they welcomed some structural considerations outlined by the BMG, they expressed skepticism regarding the proposed financial reallocations, arguing that essential healthcare responsibilities should not be compromised.