Germany's pharmacy closures leave millions stranded for essential healthcare

Germany's number of pharmacies has dropped sharply over the last decade. In 2014, there were 20,441 locations, but by April 2025, only 16,908 remained. The decline has left millions struggling to access essential healthcare services on foot. A recent study reveals that nearly one-third of the population—27.7 million people—cannot reach their nearest pharmacy within a 30-minute walk. For 16 million, this journey is impossible on foot at all. The situation worsens for older adults, with over half of those aged 75 and above unable to walk to a pharmacy in 10 minutes.

Unlike post offices, which are legally guaranteed in towns with more than 2,000 residents, pharmacies have no such protection. As a result, 911 municipalities now lack a single pharmacy, even where post offices exist. Many patients, particularly in rural areas, must rely on cars to collect prescriptions or seek urgent care. Pharmacies provide critical round-the-clock services, including emergency medication and late-night advice. Yet the study's authors describe the current system for ensuring access as 'grossly negligent'. Without intervention, the gap between demand and availability is expected to widen further.

The steady closure of pharmacies has left large parts of the population without easy access to vital healthcare. With no legal safeguards in place, millions face longer journeys or reliance on private transport for basic medical needs. The findings highlight a growing challenge for Germany's public health infrastructure.