Germany's pharmacists are protesting nationwide due to economic challenges, including a 13-year stagnation in their fees amid rising costs, leading to a 19% reduction in pharmacies since 2013 and risking medication supply. A protest today in Saarland involved turning off pharmacy lights to highlight their plight. The government is proposing a comprehensive reform, including allowing patients to obtain certain prescription medications without a prior doctor visit if they have used the medication over a period, expanding pharmacists' vaccination and testing capabilities, simplifying medication substitutions, and making pharmacy hours more flexible. Land pharmacists may also serve as temporary pharmacy managers, and the creation of satellite pharmacies will be eased to preserve rural pharmacies. However, pharmacy owners criticize the reform, demanding higher fees—currently €8.35 per medication, with a request for €9.50—and have announced further protests. The reform still requires approval from the Bundestag.