Estonia approves 24/7 robotic pharmacies, opening access to medicines across Europe

Estonia has approved draft legislation enabling the launch of 24/7 robotic pharmacies, a move that could reshape how patients access prescription and over-the-counter medicines while setting a benchmark for healthcare automation across Europe.

The legislation, announced this week, will allow companies like Grab2Go to operate fully automated self-service pharmacies without an on-site pharmacist. The commercial rollout is targeted for March 2027, following two and a half years of regulatory efforts by Grab2Go to clear legal obstacles.

If passed by parliament, the amendments to the Medicinal Products Act would make Estonia the first country in Europe to formally legalise round-the-clock robotic pharmacies, offering patients continuous access to medications. Advocates argue that this could improve convenience, particularly in rural or underserved areas, and reduce operational costs for pharmacy operators.

The move is being closely watched by other European countries considering similar models, as automation in healthcare gains momentum. The Estonian government's approval may accelerate discussions on how technology can address gaps in patient access, especially outside normal pharmacy hours.

However, the legislation still faces scrutiny in parliament and possible resistance from pharmacists and healthcare professionals concerned about safety, patient guidance, and job displacement. Public acceptance will be a key test for the commercial rollout.

Grab2Go, which plans to deploy the first robotic pharmacies by March 2027, will need to demonstrate that automated dispensing systems meet safety and reliability standards. The outcome in Estonia could influence regulatory approaches elsewhere in Europe, with implications for pharmaceutical supply chains, healthcare delivery models, and the future of pharmacy jobs.