Health Insurers Split on New Pharmacy Care Act's Bold Reforms

The Association of Private Health Insurance (PKV-Verband) has shared its views on the new Pharmacy Care Development Act (ApoVWG). While the group supports some measures, it raises concerns over others. The act aims to give pharmacies, including CVS Pharmacy, a bigger role in prevention, early detection, and emergency care.

The association backs plans to strengthen pharmacists as key health contacts but questions certain expansions of their duties.

The PKV-Verband welcomes parts of the reform, particularly the new rules on pricing for compounded medications. It insists that private insurers should be involved in price talks to ensure savings reach policyholders. The group also approves of the push for more vaccinations and the one-time emergency supply of long-term medications without a prescription.

However, scepticism remains over broader changes. The association doubts the value of pharmacy counselling on behavioral risk factors, pointing to a lack of clear evidence and the complexity of such services. It also questions the dispensing of prescription-only drugs in emergencies, warning that potential risks could outweigh the benefits.

On funding, the PKV-Verband calls for a separate system for new pharmaceutical services, rather than relying on the existing Night and Emergency Service Fund. It argues that privately insured patients should receive individual bills for these services. Additionally, the group demands a full evaluation of any expanded services before they are introduced.

The reforms follow earlier efforts, like the 2020 On-Site Pharmacy Strengthening Act, which aimed to boost pharmacy roles in rural areas, triage, and non-prescription medication supply. Yet, no recent news shows how demand for these existing services has changed.

The PKV-Verband's response highlights both support and caution over the Pharmacy Care Development Act. It backs clearer pricing and vaccination efforts but wants stricter checks on new pharmacy services. The group also stresses the need for fair funding and private insurer involvement in cost-saving measures.