Estonia approves 24/7 robotic pharmacies, paving the way for a European first

The Estonian government has approved legislation that could lead to the establishment of 24/7 robotic pharmacies, marking a potential European first. These automated self-service pharmacies would allow patients to obtain both prescription and over-the-counter medicines without the need for a pharmacist to be physically present. The proposed Medicinal Products Act amendments would incorporate digital identity verification, remote video consultations with licensed pharmacists, and robotic medicine dispensing.

While the bill still needs to be approved by parliament, implementation is targeted for March 1, 2027. If successful, Estonia could become the first European country to offer remote prescription medicine dispensing through automated pharmacies, surpassing existing collection lockers and systems limited to non-prescription products.

Estonian tech company Grab2Go, founded by Mart Viilipus and Reio Orasmäe, is at the forefront of this initiative. The company collaborated with the Estonian Medicines Board and the Ministry of Social Affairs to address regulatory challenges and ensure patient safety. The proposed robotic pharmacies could significantly improve access to medication outside conventional opening hours, addressing the challenges posed by online pharmacies that often require a delivery time of one or two days.

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