sueddeutsche.de
German Pharmacies at 50-Year Low Amidst Funding Crisis and Leadership Disputes
Germany's pharmacies have reached their lowest number in almost 50 years, with 17,041 at the end of 2024, down 530 from 2023, due to chronic underfunding and internal disputes within the industry's representative association, resulting in reduced patient access to essential medications.
- What is the immediate impact of the declining number of pharmacies in Germany on patient care and access to medication?
- The number of pharmacies in Germany has dropped to its lowest level in almost 50 years, reaching 17,041 by the end of 2024. This represents a decrease of 530 pharmacies compared to the previous year and is the lowest number since 1978, when there were 16,857 pharmacies. The decline has accelerated in recent years, with 578 pharmacies closing in 2024 and only 48 opening.
- How have insufficient government funding and internal political disputes within the pharmacy association contributed to the current crisis?
- This decrease is attributed to chronic underfunding of pharmacies, making it financially unviable for young pharmacists to open their own businesses. The lack of profitability is a direct result of insufficient government funding and has led to widespread closures, impacting patient access to medications across the country.
- What are the potential long-term consequences of this trend, and what policy changes are needed to ensure the sustainable provision of pharmaceutical services in Germany?
- The ongoing leadership dispute within the Abda (German Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians and Pharmacists) further complicates efforts to address this critical issue. The failed re-election of the Abda president highlights internal divisions and uncertainties regarding the future direction of pharmacy policy, potentially delaying necessary reforms and exacerbating the current crisis. The resulting instability could hinder efforts to secure adequate funding and implement solutions to improve the situation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue predominantly from the perspective of the Abda and its president, Gabriele Regina Overwiening, highlighting their concerns about underfunding and the potential consequences for patient care. The headline implicitly supports this view. While the concerns are valid, presenting the opposing viewpoints less prominently skews the narrative. The inclusion of Thomas Preis's statement provides some counterbalance, but the focus remains largely on the negative consequences of the declining number of pharmacies.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language such as "dramatischer" (dramatic), "gefährdete Versorgung" (endangered supply), and "Mahnmal" (monument), which conveys a sense of urgency and crisis. While this is understandable given the subject matter, it could be perceived as alarmist. The use of neutral language would present a more balanced perspective. For example, instead of "dramatischer Rückgang", "significant decline" could be used.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the decrease in the number of pharmacies and the concerns of the Abda president, but omits discussion of potential contributing factors beyond underfunding, such as changes in consumer behavior, the rise of online pharmacies, or the impact of regulations. It also doesn't explore alternative solutions beyond the mentioned, ultimately unfinished, reform. The lack of diverse perspectives weakens the analysis.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the situation as solely a problem of underfunding and a lack of reform, neglecting other potential complexities and solutions. While underfunding is a significant issue, it's presented as the only factor driving the decline in pharmacies. This simplification limits the reader's understanding of the multifaceted nature of the problem.
Gender Bias
While the article mentions both male and female pharmacists, there is a slight emphasis on Overwiening's perspective and her failed re-election bid. However, this does not present a significant gender bias. The use of gendered terms (Apothekerinnen und Apotheker) is appropriate and reflects the gender distribution in the profession.
Sustainable Development Goals
The closing of numerous pharmacies in Germany threatens the accessibility of pharmaceutical care and timely access to medicines for thousands of patients, negatively impacting their health and well-being. This directly relates to SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. Reduced access to pharmacies can lead to delayed treatment, worsening health conditions, and increased health inequalities.