South Korean medical associations oppose telemedicine expansion

Medical specialist associations in South Korea, including the Korean Otolaryngological Association and the Korean Ophthalmological Association, have expressed strong opposition to the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s proposed amendment to the Medical Service Act. The amendment aims to expand the scope of telemedicine for first-time patients, a move doctors argue undermines the principle of in-person diagnosis and threatens patient safety.

Otolaryngologists warned that many ear, nose, and throat conditions require physical examinations using specialized equipment like endoscopes and otoscopes, which cannot be replaced by video calls. They expressed concerns that expanded telemedicine could lead to misdiagnosis of serious conditions, such as strokes or sudden hearing loss, and encourage the overuse of antibiotics and steroids.

Ophthalmologists emphasized that visual information is critical for eye diseases and argued that voice-only consultations are insufficient. They proposed narrowing the geographic scope for first-time telemedicine to the municipal level and tightening the criteria for follow-up visits. Both associations are calling for stricter regulations on prescription limits, clearer protocols for transitioning to in-person care during emergencies, and greater medical professional involvement in establishing telemedicine standards.