Before receiving any medical advice or treatment, the patient must first undergo a consultation with the TCM physician using the 4 classical TCM diagnostics:
望
Inspection
Observe and detect any abnormalities of the patient’s complexion, tongue, physical structure and alignment, body movements, gait, etc.
闻
Olfaction & auscultation
Smell and hear, and detect any abnormalities of the patient’s speech pattern, breath, body odour, etc.
问
Inquiry
Askabout and understand the patient’s main complaints & concerns.
切
Palpation
Feel and detect any abnormalities of the patient’s pulse and other body parts.
These 4 diagnostics present a comprehensive collation of clinical information pertaining to the patient’s body constitution and medical condition. The TCM physician will then make an assessment and formulate a suitable treatment plan customized for each patient.