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Dm to Sell Pharmacy-Only Medications Online Amidst German Pharmacy Decline

German drugstore chain dm will start selling non-prescription, pharmacy-only medications online due to a decreasing number of pharmacies in Germany (17,041 in 2023, lowest since 1978), rising healthcare costs, and anticipated regulatory changes. Dm aims to improve access to affordable healthcare products, despite concerns about accelerating pharmacy closures.

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German

Germany

EconomyHealthGermany HealthcareOnline PharmacyDmDrug ShortagePharmaceutical Market

DmBundesvereinigung Deutscher ApothekerverbändeApothekerverband Nordrhein

Christoph WernerThomas Preis

What are the long-term implications of dm's strategy for the structure and competition within Germany's pharmaceutical retail sector?: Dm's online expansion into pharmacy-only medications could reshape the German healthcare landscape. This could increase access to affordable medications in underserved areas and put pressure on traditional pharmacies to adapt. However, potential regulatory hurdles and resistance from established players could affect this plan's long-term success.
How will dm's online sale of pharmacy-only medications impact access to healthcare in Germany, given the decline in physical pharmacies?: The German drugstore chain dm plans to sell non-prescription, but pharmacy-only medications online. This follows a decline in the number of pharmacies in Germany, reaching its lowest point since 1978 with 17,041 pharmacies in 2023, or 20 per 100,000 citizens. Dm aims to offer affordable healthcare products, addressing potential gaps in access.
What are the potential regulatory and economic consequences of dm's expansion into the market for non-prescription, pharmacy-only medications?: Dm's move is driven by the decreasing number of pharmacies in Germany and the increasing healthcare costs due to demographic change. The company anticipates future regulatory changes that may allow this expansion. While dm denies accelerating pharmacy closures, it acknowledges that entrepreneurial pharmacists may benefit from market liberalization.

Cognitive Concepts

3/5

Framing Bias

The article frames dm's plans positively, emphasizing the company's intention to improve access to affordable healthcare. The headline and introduction focus on dm's initiative, giving it significant prominence. The concerns about pharmacy closures and medication shortages are presented as context for dm's actions rather than as independent issues deserving of equal attention. The CEO's statements are presented largely uncritically.

2/5

Language Bias

The article uses relatively neutral language, but the framing favors dm's perspective. While the concerns about pharmacy closures and medication shortages are mentioned, they are presented primarily as reasons justifying dm's move, rather than as independent problems.

3/5

Bias by Omission

The article focuses heavily on dm's plans and the statements of its CEO, while providing limited perspectives from pharmacists or patient advocacy groups. The concerns of pharmacists regarding potential negative impacts on their business and the broader healthcare system are mentioned but not extensively explored. The article also omits discussion of potential alternative solutions to address the decreasing number of pharmacies and medication shortages. While acknowledging medication shortages, the article doesn't delve into the root causes beyond mentioning demographic shifts and rising healthcare costs.

2/5

False Dichotomy

The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the situation, framing the issue as a choice between dm's entry into the market and the current system. It doesn't fully explore the complexities or potential for collaboration between dm and pharmacies. The potential for alternative solutions or regulatory adjustments beyond dm's entry are not deeply considered.

Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-being Positive

Direct Relevance

The expansion of access to non-prescription medications through dm's online platform could improve healthcare access, particularly in areas with limited pharmacies. This aligns with SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The article highlights a decline in the number of pharmacies, leading to concerns about medication access. dm's initiative could help mitigate this issue and improve access to essential medicines.

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