TCM GUIDE
What Happens During Your First TCM Consultation?
A first consultation should help the provider understand your medical context, safety considerations, symptoms, goals, and how TCM may or may not fit into a broader care plan.
Before the visit
Prepare diagnoses, medications, supplements, allergies, prior surgeries, pregnancy status, imaging or lab reports, and current physician instructions. Bring questions about safety, frequency, expected monitoring, and when to seek modern medical care.
During the visit
The provider may ask about symptoms, sleep, digestion, pain patterns, stress, activity, and prior reactions. If language is a concern, interpreter support can help reduce confusion around intake questions and instructions.
After the visit
Patients should request clear written instructions, warning signs, follow-up timing, and documentation of any herbal products or therapies discussed.
A consultation is not confirmation that TCM is appropriate. Suitability depends on individual provider review.