Concerns are being raised regarding proposed changes to pharmaceutical dispensing practices in Germany, spearheaded by Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU). The proposals, which would permit pharmacies to dispense prescription medications without a direct physician’s order, have drawn criticism from the Green Party, who voiced apprehension about potential risks to patient safety.
Janosch Dahmen, the Green Party’s spokesperson for health policy in the Bundestag, emphasized the importance of maintaining the established separation of roles. “We have a clear division for good reason: physicians prescribe medication and pharmacies dispense it” he stated. Dahmen argued that this structure ensures decisions are medically driven rather than influenced by financial considerations.
The Green Party lawmaker cautioned that dismantling this separation could create unintended incentives that not only jeopardize patient well-being but also exacerbate the current financial strain on health insurance providers. He described the proposals as “risky, hasty measures” suggesting a perceived lack of coordination and strategic thought within the minister’s health policy approach. The potential impact on both patient safety and the financial stability of the healthcare system are the central points of contention surrounding the suggested changes.