Telemedicine Law Faces Fierce Debate Over Subordinate Regulations on Prescriptions and Drugs

Telemedicine in South Korea has been legalized after six years of provisional allowance and pilot programs. However, the subordinate regulations that will govern its specific operations are causing significant disagreement among the medical and pharmaceutical industries, as well as platform operators.

The core of the conflict lies in several key areas. One major point of contention is whether to limit initial prescriptions to a seven-day supply. Another is the scope of non-covered drugs, such as those for hair loss or obesity, that can be prescribed via telemedicine. The method for picking up prescribed medications also remains a point of sharp disagreement.

These differing opinions highlight the challenges in establishing a concrete operational framework for telemedicine. The debates reflect the complex interests and concerns of various stakeholders involved in the healthcare sector, as they navigate the transition from a temporary measure to a permanent legal system.