New Pharmacy Act Effective in Germany With Immediate and Phased Changes
Germany's new pharmacy law, ApoVWG, became effective on July 2, 2026. The legislation introduces immediate changes and a series of phased reforms to pharmacy services and operations.
A new law governing pharmacies in Germany, the Apothekenversorgung-Weiterentwicklungsgesetz (ApoVWG), took effect on July 2, 2026. The act, published in the Federal Law Gazette on July 1, 2026, brings about numerous changes impacting pharmacy operations and services.
The legislation amends several existing laws, including the Fifth Book of the Social Code (SGB V), the Pharmacy Act, and drug price regulations. New areas covered include pharmaceutical services, vaccinations, blood draws, branch pharmacies, emergency services, and provisions for the temporary operation of pharmacies by technical assistants in certain cases, as well as dispensing specific prescription drugs.
Changes effective immediately from July 2, 2026, include expanded options for exchanging drugs under rebate contracts and revised rules for "zero retaxations" (Nullretax). Pharmacies can also offer certain rapid tests, such as for influenza or norovirus, on a self-pay basis. Additionally, under strict conditions for continuation of care for chronically ill patients, pharmacies may dispense certain prescription medications without a prescription.
However, some of the law's new provisions require further regulations, agreements, or training concepts and will be implemented gradually. Changes to the financial support for partial emergency services will only come into effect on October 1, 2026. For new pharmaceutical services (pDL), work is ongoing to develop standard operating procedures and negotiate remuneration. The Federal Chamber of Pharmacists is also developing model curricula for venous blood collection and vaccinations with inactivated vaccines.
ABDA and other professional bodies will progressively provide further information regarding the law's content and implementation to pharmacies, aiming for a smooth transition to the new practices and services.