Germany’s Big Pharmacy Overhaul Is Here — And It Might Hit Your Wallet

A Reform Years in the Making

At the opening of the German Pharmacists’ Day (Deutscher Apothekertag, DAT) in Düsseldorf, Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) finally revealed the key points of the pharmacy reform that has been in the works for months. Unlike her predecessor, Karl Lauterbach, Warken appeared in person — a move that underscored the political weight of the announcement.

Her presence marked a turning point in the government’s approach. While Lauterbach had often faced criticism for keeping pharmacists at arm’s length, Warken chose a direct conversation with the industry. “This reform will only be attempted once during this legislative period, and we intend to do it properly,” she declared.

What’s in the Reform?

The reform package includes:

• Fee adjustments and a system for dynamic future updates.

• Uniform requirements for local and mail-order pharmacies to level the playing field.

• Abolition of the discount cap, long criticized by pharmacists as unfair.

• Stronger protection against re-taxation, which many pharmacies have flagged as a financial risk.

But there’s a catch: funding remains uncertain. While the coalition agreement explicitly promised changes to pharmacists’ fees, the extent of the increases will depend on how much money the government can allocate in its health budget.

Industry on Edge

Pharmacists attending the DAT reacted with cautious optimism. On one hand, Warken’s reforms address many of the sector’s biggest complaints. On the other, financial details were vague, leaving room for concern.

“Promises are welcome, but unless fees are adjusted in line with inflation, pharmacies will continue to struggle,” one participant told the PZ livestream.

The debate is expected to dominate not only the Düsseldorf sessions but also broader discussions in the weeks ahead.

A Balancing Act Between Local and Mail-Order

Perhaps the most contentious issue is the government’s attempt to create uniform standards between brick-and-mortar pharmacies and mail-order giants. With online sales booming, local pharmacists argue they face unfair competition. Warken’s proposal to harmonize requirements could be a lifeline for community pharmacies, which have long complained of being undercut by digital platforms.

Political Stakes

For Warken, the reform is more than just health policy; it’s a political test. The CDU/SPD coalition has only one shot at delivering a meaningful change during this legislative period. Failure would not only damage relations with pharmacists but also risk public trust in the healthcare system.

By appearing at the DAT, Warken aimed to signal commitment and seriousness. Whether this will be enough to win over skeptical pharmacists remains to be seen.

What Happens Next?

The coming weeks will see detailed negotiations over the financial framework. Warken promised transparency and invited pharmacists to participate in shaping the specifics.

The PZ continues to livestream the event, allowing the wider public to follow the heated discussions in real time. For pharmacists, patients, and policymakers alike, today marks the beginning of what could be the most significant pharmacy reform in Germany in two decades.