Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has enjoyed widespread use in Singapore but we believe that there has been a slight decline in its popularity. With fewer people opting for TCM treatments in favour of Western medicine, this has gradually supplanted TCM in our opinion.
One of the reasons for the preference of Western medicine is the eligibility for paid sick leave in Singapore. For example, when obtaining medical certificates for school or work, only visits to Western clinics are typically accepted.
Not all TCM clinics issue medical certificates or some employers may not recognize TCM visits as eligible for sick leave although the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore encourages employers to allow MCs from private doctors and TCM practitioners.
Another reason for the decline in TCM usage is its slower onset of action compared to Western medicine, which often provides faster symptom relief.
Additionally, TCM practitioners are typically older and experienced, but the aging and ailing of this demographic has led to a shortage of practitioners.
This, coupled with perceptions of limited career prospects in TCM, has deterred younger generations from pursuing TCM careers, further exacerbating the shortage of practitioners.
However, it’s important to note that neither Western medicine nor TCM is inherently superior, as both offer unique benefits.
Efforts have been made to support TCM, such as the introduction of the Chinese medicine course at Nanyang Technological University.
It’s crucial to embrace both medical traditions and ensure that the valuable knowledge and practices of TCM are preserved and integrated into modern healthcare systems.
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