Q. I live in Chuncheon; can I get a prescription for weight loss herbal medicine via a non-face-to-face consultation instead of visiting in person?

I completely understand how demanding your schedule can be; many of my patients struggle to find time for their health amidst a busy professional life. Non-face-to-face prescriptions are undeniably convenient as they save travel time and lower the barrier to starting a consultation. However, there are limitations. Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) does not rely solely on body weight. A physical examination—including pulse diagnosis and observing the complexion—is crucial. For instance, we must distinguish whether your weight gain is caused by 'Dameum' (痰飮, accumulated phlegm-fluid/metabolic waste) or 'Eohyeol' (瘀血, blood stasis due to poor circulation). These subtle physiological nuances are difficult to capture accurately through a screen. In particular, patients with 'Bi-heo' (脾虛, Spleen deficiency/weak digestive function) require extra care in the selection of medicinal herbs. If a formula is too potent without considering these factors, it may lead to side effects such as nausea or insomnia. Having experienced the importance of precision through my own rigorous training, I prioritize safety over speed. While remote prescriptions are an option, visiting the clinic at least once is the best way to receive a safe, customized prescription tailored to your unique constitution. If visiting is currently too difficult, I suggest starting with a phone consultation to determine the best approach for your specific needs.