Q. I live in Goyang City. Can I have a non-face-to-face (telemedicine) consultation for diet treatment at a Korean medicine clinic?

Even if you live in Goyang City, non-face-to-face consultation is entirely possible, but there are conditions. It depends on whether you are a 'first-time patient' (初診) or a 'returning patient' (再診). For a first-time patient who has never visited our clinic and whose pulse (脈) or tongue (舌) condition I have not personally assessed, it is difficult to prescribe herbal medicine immediately via telemedicine. Traditional Korean Medicine is based on the 'Four Examinations' (望聞問切), and conditions such as 'spleen deficiency' (脾虛) or 'phlegm-fluid retention' (痰飮) are more accurately evaluated through an in-person examination. Therefore, for first-time patients, we first conduct a brief video consultation, provide lifestyle and dietary guidance, and then schedule an in-person visit if deemed necessary. For returning patients, if there is a treatment history with me and a need for herbal medicine, I can issue a prescription remotely. However, even in this case, I recommend an in-person visit at least once every three months to reassess your condition, as I want to confirm that the formula still suits your constitution. The key distinction is that 'telemedicine consultation' and 'telemedicine prescription' are different. Consultation is always welcome. If a prescription is needed, I will explain which herbs are necessary and why, and then arrange an appointment for an in-person visit. Goyang City is close, so please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions.