Germany Faces Accelerating Decline in Pharmacy Numbers

The number of pharmacies in Germany has decreased significantly, raising concerns about access to medication and healthcare services.

In the first nine months of 2024, 384 pharmacies closed across Germany, leaving only 17,187 operational by the end of September.
The pharmacy density in Germany is below the EU average, with only 21 pharmacies per 100,000 people compared to the EU average of 32.
Rising operational costs, including personnel, rent, and energy, along with stagnant compensation, are major factors contributing to closures.
Health Minister Karl Lauterbach's proposal to allow telepharmacy services has sparked criticism from industry leaders who fear it could undermine the role of qualified pharmacists.
The Bundesvereinigung Deutscher Apothekerverbände calls for increased financial support and reduced bureaucracy to stabilize the pharmacy network.