Doctor Visit Fees Spark Debate: Balancing Healthcare Access and Financial Strain
Berlin, Germany – October 7, 2025 – A proposed overhaul of germany’s healthcare system, allowing pharmacists to dispense certain prescription medications without a doctor’s prescription and possibly canceling prescriptions for chronically ill patients, is igniting a fierce debate over access to care and the role of medical professionals. The changes, announced by the ministry of Health, aim to streamline healthcare delivery but are facing strong opposition from physician associations who warn of potential risks to patient safety.
The core of the controversy lies in a plan to empower pharmacies to independently sell specific prescription drugs for uncomplicated conditions like urinary tract infections. Simultaneously, the ministry intends to revoke prescriptions for patients with chronic illnesses requiring long-term medication, eliminating the need for regular doctor’s visits. This move is intended to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and alleviate pressure on the medical system, but critics argue it could lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians has voiced strong concerns, asserting that medicines should be prescribed by doctors who are qualified to diagnose and treat underlying conditions, and that pharmacists lack the necessary training for such responsibilities.
The Ministry of Health defends the proposed changes, stating they are designed to address inefficiencies and improve access to essential medications. The plan specifically targets chronically ill patients with established, long-term prescriptions, suggesting these individuals would not be negatively impacted by the cancellation of routine appointments.however, the Association of statutory health insurance physicians warns that such an approach “can endanger people’s life and life,” emphasizing the critical role of a physician’s diagnosis in determining appropriate treatment.
