A Qualitative Study on Practitioners Participating in the COVID-19 Telemedicine Centre of Korean Medicine

Abstract

Introduction: This qualitative study explored the integration of Korean medicine, particularly herbal medicine, in non-face-to-face care during the rapid increase in coronavirus disease 2019 patients in South Korea. This initiative was implemented voluntarily without governmental support. Methods: We conducted in-depth interviews with twelve Korean medicine doctors from the Korean Medicine Telemedicine Centres in Daegu and Seoul, analysing the data using qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings were categorised into four themes: (1) establishment of the Korean Medicine Telemedicine Centre amidst the conflict between Korean and Western medicine and a strong internal motivation; (2) patients as viewed by Korean medicine doctors and what patients want from Korean medicine treatment; (3) hope and the value of Korean medicine found again through new experience; (4) changes to be prepared for future Korean medicine to take a step forward. Conclusions: This study highlights the potential of Korean medicine telemedicine as a viable healthcare model beyond the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, addressing both its opportunities and challenges in infectious disease management. To ensure its long-term integration, future efforts should focus on developing standardised treatment protocols, advancing telemedicine technologies, and fostering collaboration between Korean medicine and Western medicine within a more inclusive healthcare system.