Lower Saxony's new pharmacy contract ensures reliable medical supplies from 2026

A new unified contract for pharmacy supplies to medical practices in Lower Saxony will take effect on July 1, 2026. The agreement replaces a patchwork of old arrangements with a standardised framework. It aims to modernise and secure reliable access to essential medications and materials.

The State Pharmacists' Association (LAV) and health insurance funds negotiated the deal after terminating previous regulations on December 31, 2025. A no-strike clause ensured uninterrupted supply until the new terms began.

Under the agreement, pharmacies delivering vaccines to contract physicians will earn 80 cents per dose initially. This payment will rise to €1 once contract targets are met. The deal also introduces standard priority rules for dispensing finished medicines to practice supplies. The contract covers medications and materials used for multiple patients or in emergencies. However, the exact number of pharmacies affected remains unclear, as no specific data on changes from past regulations has been released.

The new framework standardises how pharmacies supply practice medications across Lower Saxony. It addresses economic challenges while ensuring consistent access to treatments. The agreement will remain in place from July 1, 2026, onwards.