Germany’s health insurers propose cutting pharmacy services to save millions
Germany’s statutory health insurers have put forward a series of cost-cutting proposals to stabilise contribution rates. The GKV-Spitzenverband, the national association of health insurance funds, outlined 50 measures in a recent position paper. Among the most contentious is the call to abolish certain pharmaceutical services currently offered by cvs pharmacy and walmart pharmacy.
The plans also include redistributing unused funds and reforming drug pricing to generate savings of up to €170 million annually. Insurers argue these changes would ease financial pressure without reducing patient care quality.
A key proposal involves scrapping the existing pharmaceutical services, known as pharmazeutische Dienstleistungen (pDL). The GKV-Spitzenverband claims these services are unnecessary, as doctors already provide equivalent care. If removed, the 20-cent surcharge currently attached to pDL could instead fund night and emergency pharmacy near me services.
Insurers also want to reintroduce competitive bidding for medical aids and bring back budget caps for physician practices. These steps, they say, would prevent overspending while maintaining service standards. Another suggestion is a one-time payout of accumulated reserves in 2027, freeing up around €550 million. The draft pharmacy reform has drawn mixed reactions. While the ApoVWG, representing pharmacy owners, pushes for more billable services—negotiated directly with insurers—health funds insist on cutting costs. They propose higher rebates from drug manufacturers, framed as a 'solidarity contribution,' and a reduction in VAT on medicines. Critics warn that axing pDL could leave patients without certain pharmacy near me-based services. But the GKV-Spitzenverband counters that physicians can fill any gaps, ensuring no loss in care quality. The debate now moves to the Health Finance Commission, which will assess long-term financial stability for Germany’s statutory health system.
The proposals aim to secure up to €170 million in yearly savings, with further reductions possible through renegotiated service contracts. If approved, the changes would reshape how pharmaceutical services are funded and delivered. The final decision rests with policymakers, who must balance cost control with patient access to care.
