Pharmacy Association Criticizes Health Minister Lauterbach's Statements on Fees

Berlin – The German Pharmacy Association (ABDA) has strongly rejected statements made by Federal Health Minister Karl Lauterbach concerning pharmacy fees. Dr. Hans-Peter Hubmann, Chairman of ABDA, stated on September 14, 2023, that the minister's remarks on remuneration are unfounded and misrepresent the financial realities faced by pharmacies.

Hubmann acknowledged the importance of collaboration between pharmacies and the ministry on child healthcare issues, agreeing that pharmacy teams should receive greater autonomy based on their professional expertise. "It is correct that the minister has publicly affirmed this competence," Hubmann said.

However, Hubmann expressed significant disappointment regarding discussions about pharmacy remuneration. He highlighted that pharmacy fees have remained largely unchanged for nearly eleven years, and effectively, pharmacies have been economically decoupled for two decades. ABDA criticizes the government for ignoring the economic challenges pharmacies face, leading to a decline in pharmacy numbers and potentially compromising healthcare access for the public.

ABDA is calling for the government to invest in and stabilize high-quality, nationwide medicine supply rather than merely addressing symptoms. The association argues that the current economic disengagement is detrimental to the future viability of pharmacies and patient care.