At the German Pharmacists’ Day in October, Federal Health Minister Jens Spahn announced that he would bring the currently pressing issues surrounding the distribution of medicines to the forefront of political debate. The Monopolies Commission recommends a reform of the remuneration system.
At a glance
- Fixed pricing for prescription medicines does not adequately take account of the varying regional requirements for pharmacy provision.
- Pharmacies should be permitted to offer discounts on regulated prices up to the amount of the co-payment made by those with statutory health insurance. Targeted additional measures can, if necessary, safeguard local supply.
- The mail-order supply of prescription medicines helps to ensure the availability of medicines and should be maintained.
