Assisted Telemedicine in Pharmacies to Launch July 1
A binding arbitration ruling has set the compensation for assisted telemedicine services in German pharmacies, clearing the way for the service to begin on July 1, 2026, pending final ministry approval.
Berlin – The German Pharmacists Association (DAV) anticipates the launch of assisted telemedicine services in pharmacies for patients starting July 1, 2026. This follows a necessary arbitration proceeding that has determined the compensation for these services, as mandated by social law.
"Assisted telemedicine in pharmacies can help many people save time and travel to doctor's offices and receive competent advice at the pharmacy," stated Tatjana Zambo, DAV's lead negotiator for assisted telemedicine. "The arbitration ruling, which still requires confirmation from the Federal Ministry of Health, paves the way for assisted telemedicine in pharmacies. I am confident that pharmacies can offer this service to their customers starting July 1."
One application of the service involves a structured initial medical assessment to prepare for a video consultation with a physician. Pharmacies can facilitate these video consultations within their private consultation rooms, allowing patients to connect with a doctor's office in a confidential and secure environment.
The agreement, negotiated between DAV and the GKV-Spitzenverband (National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Funds), had reached an impasse on compensation details, necessitating intervention by the arbitration board. The final agreement has been submitted to the Federal Ministry of Health for a one-month review period.