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.
Overview
- 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.