German insurers question pharmacy reforms despite backing key changes
The Association of Private Health Insurance (PKV-Verband) has shared its views on the latest pharmacy news in Germany. While supporting some changes, the group remains cautious about expanding pharmacists' roles without clear evidence of patient benefits. The news, part of the Pharmacy Care Development Act (ApoVWG), aims to strengthen the position of pharmacies in healthcare.
Since the On-Site Pharmacy Strengthening Act (BTÄG) took effect in 2020, demand for pharmaceutical services—such as consultations and vaccinations—has risen sharply. Industry reports from the ABDA suggest a revenue increase of 15–20% by 2025.
The PKV-Verband welcomes certain aspects of the new legislation. It backs proposals for one-time emergency supplies of long-term medications without a prescription in urgent cases. The association also supports the push for wider vaccination services in pharmacies.
However, skepticism remains over broader changes. The group questions whether counselling on behavioural risk factors truly improves patient outcomes. It also argues that any expansion of pharmaceutical services (pDL) must be evaluated first to prove its real-world value.
Funding concerns have been raised as well. The PKV-Verband insists that the current system for reimbursing pharmaceutical services is flawed and needs reform. It calls for a new funding model that includes privately insured patients and those receiving government health subsidies. This, it claims, would ensure that cost savings from price negotiations benefit all policyholders.
Legal adjustments are another priority. The association wants provisions allowing individual billing for privately insured patients. It also praises new rules on pricing for compounded medications but demands a seat at the table in future discussions.
The PKV-Verband remains firm on one point: any relaxation of doctors' exclusive prescribing rights must be carefully reviewed. Dispensing prescription-only drugs in emergencies, it warns, should not set a precedent without thorough scrutiny.
The news aims to give pharmacies a bigger role in prevention and early disease detection. If implemented, the changes could reshape how patients access certain treatments and advice. The PKV-Verband's stance highlights the need for clear evidence, fair funding, and legal clarity before broader adoption.
