- Drugstore specialists demonstrate against reform proposals in Dresden
Pharmacists in Saxony Take to the Streets Against Health Minister Lauterbach's (SPD) Reform Plans. "We won't back down until our three key requests are addressed in a future-proof pharmacy reform," declared Thomas Dittrich, chairman of the Saxon Pharmacists' Association. These demands encompass enhancing financial conditions, prohibiting the opening of pharmacies without a pharmacist on-site, and deregulation.
At the rally at Postplatz, Saxony's Health Minister, Petra Köpping (SPD), expressed understanding for the rage. "We share concerns that medication availability might be affected," she noted. Pharmacists provide commendable and skilled services, frequently acting as the first point of contact for numerous individuals. In rural areas, particularly, the local pharmacy should be safeguarded.
Protests Also in Erfurt
In tandem with the demonstration in Dresden, a rally took place in Erfurt. Last year, nationwide protest actions were held. In late November, pharmacists from the eastern German states convened in Dresden. However, the hoped-for transformation hasn't materialized, as indicated in the announcement.
Dentists in Saxony Also Plan Protests. They've announced closing their practices from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM on a Thursday for an internal info session and protest event, as announced by the state dental chamber. The reason? An increasing number of practices are shutting down without successors, posing a threat to comprehensive and local dental care in Saxony.
The Saxon Pharmacists' Association, led by Thomas Dittrich, is actively engaging in negotiations with The Association to address their concerns in the pharmacy reform. Despite Health Minister Lauterbach's SPD's reform plans, Petra Köpping, the Saxony's Health Minister, acknowledged the importance of safeguarding rural pharmacies as they serve as the primary healthcare point for many individuals.
