Pharmacies in Germany
Ban On Outside and Multiple Ownership
In Germany, only pharmacists may operate a pharmacy. This principle guarantees the proper pharmaceutical supply of the population. The ban on outside and multiple ownership stresses the personal responsibility and liability of self-employed pharmacists in the healthcare sector.
Drug Discount Contracts
By agreeing on a discount contract, a drug manufacturer promises to a health insurance company that a discount on the list price will be given for a single drug or a an assortment of drugs. In turn, the health insurance company agrees with the manufacturer that all of their insurants will normally receive these drugs to which the contract applies.
Consumer Protection
Several instruments of consumer protection are applied in Germany. All prescribed drugs have the same price in every pharmacy across the country. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs may only be sold by a licensed pharmacy. In addition, German pharmacists have launched own initiatives of improving consumer protection, such as medication management.
Click on image starts download of the PDF file "German Pharmacies: Figures Data Facts 2010".
