German pharmacies expand with second consultation rooms to meet rising demand
Pharmacies across Germany are changing how they operate. More are now adding a second consultation room as demand for private patient services grows. This shift comes alongside a broader trend of closures for some while others expand their offerings.
Since February 2012, Germany's Pharmacy Operations Ordinance has required most pharmacies to include at least one consultation room. But today, many are going further by incorporating a second space during renovations. The rise in vaccination programmes and extended pharmaceutical care has driven this need.
Designers now treat these rooms as essential rather than an afterthought. Hagen Brockhaus, managing director of Mediraum Design, advises allocating 8 to 10 square metres for each consultation area. The space should feel welcoming, almost homelike, to put patients at ease while still being fully functional for all services.
Visibility matters too. The entrance must be easily seen from the dispensary but positioned to keep conversations private. A well-planned layout can also unlock extra revenue, as billable services like medication reviews become more common.
The move towards two consultation rooms reflects a larger transformation in pharmacy services. By prioritising patient comfort and discretion, these spaces help build stronger relationships. They also open doors to new income streams through expanded care options.
