Abstracts by key term: Generics
Since 2003, health insurance companies have been able to conclude individual discount agreements with pharmaceutical manufacturers. Due to a change in the legal situation, since the beginning of 2009, drug discount contracts in the form of active ingredient contracts have had to be advertised across Europe if the turnover covered by this exceeds 193,000 euros. The change from freely negotiated so-called portfolio contracts to tenders has led to various problems in the reality of supply. This article examines the topic from different perspectives and provides information on how, with the involvement of all those involved, discount agreements can be integrated smoothly into the (standard) supply landscape.
17.10.2010
Discount contracts have played a prominent role in the pharmaceutical supply of statutory health insurance (GKV). This competitive field has undergone dramatic change in many respects. Not only contract design, implementation, but also legal assessment and public perception have changed. Implementation problems from the beginning have largely been resolved. The savings from the contracts are essential for the GKV - every statutory health insurance company has reported numerous contracts. The article provides an overview of the experiences of the German BKK.