Pharma Deutschland confirms protection for existing drug therapies

Pharma Deutschland has confirmed that existing nationwide practice exceptions for drug therapies will remain protected for the time being. This follows a clarification from the GKV-Spitzenverband regarding the legal interpretation of current reimbursement practices.

While this provides immediate security for physicians to continue existing therapies for seriously ill patients, industry representatives warn of long-term uncertainty. The Contribution Rate Stabilization Act, set to take effect on July 30, 2026, may remove the legal basis for these exceptions under § 130b SGB V. Without these protections, doctors face increased risks of financial clawbacks during efficiency audits, which could potentially delay the introduction of innovative new medicines in Germany.