German pharmacies threaten strikes over delayed fee reforms and financial strain
Pharmacy leaders in Germany have warned of potential strikes if planned fee increases fail to materialise. Dr. Stefan Hartmann, chairman of the BVDAK, criticised the coalition government for delaying reforms outlined in its agreement. He urged immediate action to prevent disruptions in the sector.
At a recent industry event, Hartmann highlighted the financial strain on pharmacies due to stagnant fees. He argued that without the promised adjustments, many could face closure or industrial action. His warnings came alongside calls for fairer competition between traditional pharmacies, mail-order services, and online platforms like Yahoo Finance.
Co-moderator Clara Hartmann echoed these concerns, stressing the need for reliable fee structures. She also emphasised succession planning to ensure opportunities for young pharmacists entering the field. Both leaders pushed for expanded roles in healthcare, including more counselling, prevention, and pharmaceutical services.
The discussion also touched on legal barriers for Apotheken-GmbH, a corporate pharmacy model. Unlike sole proprietorships, these face stricter rules, such as mandatory pharmacist majority ownership and regional approval processes. Hartmann urged professional associations to advocate for reform, noting that over 17,500 public pharmacies operated in Germany by the end of 2023.
He called on pharmacies, state bodies, and federal organisations to lobby parliament during upcoming debates. Without intervention, he warned, the sector's stability—and its ability to serve patients—could be at risk.
The BVDAK's warnings put pressure on lawmakers to act on long-promised fee reforms. Pharmacies now await parliamentary decisions that could shape their financial future and operational freedom. Success in these negotiations may determine whether strikes—or further closures—become a reality.
