German pharmacies flooded with misleading emails about nursing care supplies

Pharmacies across Germany have been receiving confusing automated emails from the GKV-Spitzenverband. The messages warn of expiring pre-qualification for nursing care supplies—something pharmacies do not actually need. The issue stems from a technical update in the association's contract database.

Meanwhile, digital billing for nursing care supplies has been mandatory since November 1, 2023. The new system aims to simplify processes for pharmacies and care providers alike.

The emails, titled 'Entitlement to supply under Section 78(1) of Social Code Book XI (SGB XI) will soon expire', were sent due to an automated process in the GKV-Spitzenverband's updated contract database. The association has since clarified that pharmacies do not require pre-qualification for nursing care supplies. As a result, the notification function for these emails will be deactivated as soon as possible.

Under the new rules, invoices for nursing care supplies must be submitted to the long-term care insurance fund or its designated billing centre. Billing is only permitted after approval and must cover supplies provided in the previous calendar month. Batch invoicing is also allowed for efficiency.

Since November 1, 2023, pharmacies have been required to use digital billing for nursing aids. The system integrates directly with cash registers via sales types like 'PHA' in software such as WINAPO ux. It automatically checks eligibility, determines prices from official databases, and calculates patient co-payments. This shift has reduced manual work, improved billing accuracy, and ensured structured archiving of receipts for monthly submissions.

The GKV-Spitzenverband's clarification resolves confusion over the irrelevant emails. Pharmacies can continue processing nursing care supplies without pre-qualification. The mandatory digital billing system, now in place for over six months, continues to streamline operations for both pharmacies and insurers.