Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Got questions? Read our FAQ page to explore how TCM can help you!
1
It'll be my first time at your clinic, do I need to make an appointment? What should I expect? How much does will it cost?
We strongly encourage visitors to make an appointment with us before coming down. You may see our branch locations and contact details here. While we do accept walk-ins, we cannot guarantee you a slot during peak periods.
Generally, the flow at our clinic involves registration first, followed by consultation with our TCM physician. Depending on your condition, the physician will prescribe a suitable care plan for you. Afterwards, TCM medical service(s) (such as acupuncture, cupping, pediatric tuina etc) will be administered on you, should the physician deem necessary. You may collect your medication (if any) and make payment after.
We recommend catering an average of 40 minutes to 1 hour at our clinic for our services to be rendered to you from start to the end. As herbal prescriptions are customised to individual's needs, they may require some time to prepare.
We believe in transparent pricing, you may view our charges table at chonghoehealthcare.com/charges . Please note that the total charges per visit will include consultation fee and the relevant treatment/medicine charges.
2
Does your clinic have house call services?
Yes, we offer TCM house call services. Currently, the services available for TCM house call are: consultation, acupuncture, TCM dietary report and herbal medication. You may discuss with our physician on the appropriate care plan for you or your loved one.
Do note that only Physician Pansy Yeo, Physician Ng Wan Jing and Physician Grace Lin are available for house call appointments. House call appointments are limited to certain days/time as our physicians have clinical sessions in our branches. Fill out the house call appointment form here and we will get in touch with you to arrange for a suitable timing.
3
Can I eat TCM medication together with Western medication(s)? Can I stop my Western medication(s) while on TCM medication?
In general, TCM medication and Western medication operate through different pathways and principles. As TCM can complement Western treatment, do let your attending TCM physician know of the Western medications that you're taking. We advise you keep both TCM and Western medications approximately 2 hours apart. Two hours is usually sufficient time to allow for digestion and to avoid possible side effects.
We do not recommend stopping any Western medication(s) while you're taking TCM medication. You should consult your Western doctor if you wish to stop your Western medication(s).
4
What is acupuncture? Is it safe? Is it painful? Are there side effects?
Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into acupoints to effect therapeutic effect. It is generally safe and poses minimal side effects. Our physicians are trained in administering acupuncture safely. In Singapore, it is required by the TCM Board to have a license before one is able to administer acupuncture. Rest assured, our physicians are all MOH registered TCM practitioners.
During the insertion of the needles, you may experience a slight pain that resembles an ant bite, followed by soreness or achy or tight feeling at the acupoint. Some may even experience an electric shock or tingling feeling or a wave of heat moving up and down. All these are normal and are part of the acupuncture procedure. If you feel that the sensations are too strong for you, you may let your physician know and he/she will adjust the stimulation accordingly.
Some post-session discomfort commonly reported are: muscle aches, soreness, bleeding and bruising at the acupoints. For individuals with a weaker body constitution, you may experience fatigue as well. We advise you to rest after acupuncture session, and avoid any strenuous activities. Drink more water. Light massages and warm compresses may be applied at the acupoints to relieve your discomfort.
Read more here.
5
What is paediatric tuina? How do I know if my kid(s) are suitable? Is it effective?
Paediatric tuina (小儿推拿) is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) massage therapy specifically for children. It can be used for a variety of conditions such as respiratory illness, digestive-related conditions and for general wellness. As it is a form of massage technique, it does not impose any burden on the digestive system. Paediatric tuina is also widely accepted by children. It may be used alone or in tandem with herbal medication
It is suitable for children of various ages between aged 0 (at least 24 hours after birth or after discharge from hospital) and up to 12 years old. However, we recommend your child to be at least 6 months old for paediatric tuina.
Paediatric tuina is generally painless, although a select few techniques may be sore or aching for the child. Our therapist will adjust according to your child's tolerance level. We recommend regular sessions to see its effect.
Read more here.
6
How long will it take to see effect?
In general, acute conditions such as common cold and minor pains tend to recover quickly. On the other hand, chronic conditions or issues relating to body constitution may require a longer time.
For TCM herbal medication, depending on the condition and the individual's body constitution, we generally recommend giving at least 3 to 6 months time before seeing noticeable results.
For pediatric massage, 4-6 sessions is considered one course of treatment. For acupuncture, 6-10 sessions is considered as one course of treatment. Some individuals may experience immediate relief, while some may require regular sessions or multiple courses of treatment in order to see noticeable effect.
TCM holds a holistic view towards the body. Apart from TCM medical services rendered and/or herbal medication prescribed, the effectiveness of TCM treatment is also influenced by: individual's compliance (such as frequency of acupuncture, medication adherence, follow-through with necessary check-ups/examinations), individual's diet and lifestyle choices (such as adequate rest, suitable exercise routine, or smoking cessation), as well as emotional well-being.
Furthermore, depending on the severity and type of condition, controlling the individual's symptoms and preventing deterioration are also considered signs of positive outcomes.
7
Do TCM herbs contain steroids?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs generally do not contain steroids. Some herbs may have chemical compounds that mimic steroidal activity but do not actually contain steroids, you may read more in our blog article here. In appropriate dosage, the herbs are safe for use.
Herbal formulas are usually made up of a group of herbs. When herbs are combined and processed, a synergistic effect is created which strengthens the therapeutic effects and reduces the undesirable effects. You may be rest assured that all the herbs and formulas that we have in our clinics are approved by Health Sciences Authority (HSA) Singapore.
To ensure your safety, please avoid self-medication and buying herbal products from unreliable and unregulated sources. Our physicians are trained and licensed to administer safe prescriptions, if you are taking any steroids or are concerned about any clashes with your medication(s), do let your attending physician know.