Many people assume that doctors with a high patient volume must be skilled. That’s not necessarily true. Appearing on television, giving a talk show, getting recommended by an influencer, or even buying online and offline traffic — none of this is uncommon. Well-known large hospitals never lack patient volume, and that has nothing to do with a doctor’s actual skill in Chinese medicine.
A big name is not necessarily a master, and a master may not be the right fit for you. Fame and skill are two different things. What matters is finding someone whose approach suits your condition.
Don’t reject Western medicine. A good TCM practitioner acknowledges the strengths of modern medicine and knows when to integrate both approaches.
Don’t deny the toxic side effects of Chinese herbal medicine. Any honest practitioner will tell you that herbs can have adverse effects — proper dosing and monitoring are essential.
Don’t mix Western and Chinese medicines unless necessary. Combining treatments without careful consideration can lead to unpredictable interactions.
No one cures all diseases. Be wary of practitioners who promise universal remedies. Responsible doctors know their limits.
Don’t slander fellow practitioners. A professional doctor focuses on their own work, not on badmouthing colleagues.
Prescribing medication for three months or more right off the bat, regardless of the condition. Responsible treatment starts with careful assessment, not long-term prescriptions on day one.
No noticeable improvement after multiple visits, with no adjustment to the prescription. A good practitioner observes and adapts — if nothing changes, something is wrong.
Charging by treatment packages. Ethical TCM practice charges per visit or per prescription, not through prepaid bundles.
Being overly mysterious. While TCM has its nuances, a trustworthy practitioner explains things clearly and doesn’t rely on mystique to impress patients.
Finding a reliable Chinese medicine practitioner requires both good judgment and a fair bit of luck. Stay informed, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to walk away when something doesn’t feel right.
中文原文 / Chinese Original
很多人觉得门诊量大的医生水平一定好,这不一定。上个电视,讲个节目,大V推荐,甚至买线上线下流量都不罕见。知名大医院从来不缺门诊量,与中医水平无关。
大牌不一定是大师,大师不一定适合你。
不排斥西医。
不否认中医药的毒副作用。
非必要不主动推荐混合服用西药。
不包治百病。
不诋毁同行。
不管什么病动辄服药三月起。
多次就诊无明显改善且不调整处方。
按套餐收费。
过于神秘的。
能遇到靠谱的中医,智商和运气很重要。
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