Pharma Deutschland criticizes German health savings law

Pharma Deutschland e.V., an industry association, has voiced strong criticism of the proposed "GKV savings law" by the German government. The organization argues that the legislation, intended to cut costs within the statutory health insurance system (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, GKV), risks significantly damaging Germany's pharmaceutical sector, its innovation capacity, and its economic strength.

Jörg Wieczorek, Chairman of Pharma Deutschland, stated that the proposed law primarily treats the pharmaceutical industry as a cost factor rather than acknowledging its role as a key sector that secures healthcare, drives innovation, and generates industrial value in Germany. He noted that the increased manufacturer rebates, more than doubling and potentially rising further with other measures, should be a major concern for the Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Chancellery.

According to Pharma Deutschland, the law's provision for an indefinite increase in manufacturer rebates poses a risk to the industry's confidence and Germany's competitiveness as a business location. Wieczorek stressed that while the industry will not abandon its efforts, it requires consistent and supportive political action, moving beyond mere declarations of importance.

Wieczorek emphasized that for a comprehensive pharmaceutical strategy to succeed, the industry must be genuinely involved as an equal partner, and substantial structural improvements are necessary. Pharma Deutschland expressed disappointment that the government's approach to GKV's financial problems focuses solely on balancing income and expenses, without adequately addressing the structural causes of these issues or the economic consequences for a vital industry.

The bill is currently undergoing final parliamentary review. Pharma Deutschland urges lawmakers to reconsider the law's potential impact on the German economy and the future of healthcare before its final passage.