Hallo everyone! Today I want to share with you some things about buying medicine in Germany, and I guarantee you will gain a lot!
Doctor’s prescription: Without a prescription, even a god can hardly buy medicine!
In Germany, prescription drugs are not available for purchase without a doctor's prescription. So, if you're sick, don't be your own doctor. Instead, go to a professional for a prescription. This is the safest and most effective way to get your medication.
Health Insurance: Most prescription drug costs are covered!
In Germany, public health insurance is a boon, covering most prescription medications, leaving you with only a small out-of-pocket expense. However, private health insurance may cover different costs, so be sure to check your policy carefully.
Pharmacist's personal responsibility: medical quality is guaranteed!
More importantly, pharmacies in Germany cannot be limited liability companies. Pharmacists are responsible for their own company and bear the responsibility for any problems. This regulation is designed to ensure patient safety and medical quality, giving people greater peace of mind when buying medicine.
Buying medicine at a pharmacy (apotheke): electronic prescription, done with your mobile phone!
Once you have a prescription, you can go to any pharmacy to buy your medication without any restrictions. Furthermore, German pharmacists are highly professional and will provide detailed medication instructions, ensuring peace of mind. Even better, many places in Germany now have an electronic prescription system, allowing doctors to send prescriptions directly to pharmacies. Simply present the prescription number on your phone to pick up your medication – incredibly convenient!
Online pharmacy: You must have a physical store to open!
Online pharmacies in Germany are incredibly popular, selling nearly any medication. However, there's a unique rule: if you want to sell medication online, you must already have a brick-and-mortar pharmacy! Furthermore, a pharmacist can only own four brick-and-mortar pharmacies. This is to prevent monopolies and ensure affordable access to medication.
Advantages of online pharmacies: convenient and affordable!
There are many benefits to online pharmacies: you can place orders 24 hours a day, have a wider selection of medicines, get them delivered to your door, and even provide prescription services, all at a better price!
Intimate reminder
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Can tourists buy medicine?
Yes, tourists can buy medication in Germany! If you need prescription medication during a short stay or trip, simply make an appointment with a local doctor and obtain a prescription. However, be aware that tourists are usually required to pay for doctor visits and medications out of pocket, which can be expensive, especially if you don't have international health insurance.
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Tax Refund Policy
Tourists can generally apply for a tax refund on over-the-counter medications, provided they meet Germany's tax refund requirements (e.g., short-term departure from the EU and a minimum purchase amount). Whether prescription medications qualify for a tax refund depends on the specific circumstances. It's recommended to ask the pharmacy if they can issue a tax-free form at the time of purchase. -
Buying medicine at German airports
The good news is that you can find pharmacies (Apotheke) at major German airports, such as Frankfurt and Munich. These pharmacies often offer over-the-counter medications and basic health products. If you need prescription medication, you'll still need a doctor's prescription. However, due to the limited selection available at airport pharmacies, it's recommended to purchase at a pharmacy in the city.
- If you want to confirm whether a pharmacy is German, you can check the registration information and company background in the "Impressum" section of the pharmacy's website.
In short~
Buying prescription drugs in Germany is a standardized and safe process, giving you peace of mind. Whether it's electronic prescriptions or online pharmacies, both reflect Germany's emphasis on medical quality.
