German healthcare reforms face opposition from medical associations

Proposed changes to the German healthcare system regarding pharmaceutical tenders and medical roles are facing significant opposition from professional associations. New pricing for medical aids, set to take effect in October, is projected to save approximately 160 million euros annually.

The German Pharmaceutical Association (DAV) has rejected plans to reintroduce tenders for patient-specific cancer medications and medical aids, warning that such moves could lead to market concentration and threaten local supply. Similarly, the Association of Practicing Hematologists and Oncologists (BNHO) cautioned that tenders for individualized oncology drugs could disrupt proven supply structures and increase errors, noting that previous attempts in 2017 were abandoned following criticism of delivery failures.

In a separate dispute, medical associations including the KBV and the German Medical Association are demanding corrections from the ABDA regarding the qualifications of pharmacists to perform vaccinations. Additionally, there are calls for the federal government to allow doctors to dispense medication in acute cases, potentially shifting tasks traditionally held by pharmacies toward medical practices.