Ministry of Health and Medical Community Discuss Measures for Telemedicine-Only Medical Institutions and Delivery-Only Pharmacies

The 31st Meeting of the Health and Medical Development Council Held
Discussion on the Implementation Status of Basic Bed Policies and Installation of Artificial Kidney Rooms

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The Ministry of Health and Welfare and medical organizations have agreed to share issues and discuss countermeasures regarding telemedicine-exclusive medical institutions and delivery-only pharmacies.

On the 4th, the Ministry of Health and Welfare held the 31st meeting of the Health and Medical Development Council with medical organizations to discuss the "Plan for the Formation and Operation of the Telemedicine Council" containing these matters.

At the meeting, the Korea Medical Association and the Korea Pharmaceutical Association expressed opinions that telemedicine-exclusive medical institutions and delivery-only pharmacies, which emerged due to the temporary allowance of telemedicine during COVID-19, should be prevented from operating.

The Pharmaceutical Association voiced concerns about prescription forgery and duplicate use, incorrect delivery of medicines, and the collapse of the local pharmacy system. The Korean Dental Association argued that, apart from institutionalizing telemedicine, measures should be taken to prevent potential abuse of platforms. Subsequently, the Medical Association requested the Ministry of Health and Welfare to operate the council with sufficient preparation time, considering the seriousness of the issue.

A Ministry of Health and Welfare official stated, "Telemedicine-exclusive medical institutions and delivery-only pharmacies may violate current laws, so we are reviewing whether there are any violations," adding, "We will form a telemedicine council in the future to discuss countermeasures to prevent telemedicine-exclusive medical institutions and delivery-only pharmacies."

Additionally, the Ministry is considering measures to limit the number of telemedicine cases per medical institution or per doctor and pharmacist to prevent excessive telemedicine usage by specific care institutions.

Other topics discussed at the meeting included the progress of the basic hospital bed policy and the implementation of recommended standards for the installation and operation of artificial kidney rooms.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.