87Consequently, in the Apothekerverband's submission, the prohibition on selling medicines by mail order forms an integral part of the social security system, the aim of which is to ensure that a reliable and balanced supply of medicines is available to the general public at any time. The prohibition cannot be modified or abolished in isolation unless the system as a whole is reviewed. In that regard, the Apothekerverband mentions the considerations developed by the Court in Case C-368/98 Vanbraekel and Others [2001] ECR I-5363, paragraphs 47 to 49, and Case C-157/99 Smits and Peerbooms [2001] ECR I-5473, paragraphs 72 to 74, relating to safeguarding the social security system and a balanced hospital and medical service.
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