In Korea, is the doctor or the patient "boss"?

I haven't seen a doctor here yet and I'm wondering what to expect.
Thanks.

You ask an interesting question; it brings humorous memories to me.

Here in South Korea, the Doctor is unquestionably the "Boss" in regards to his medical field, or expertise.

The Patient is expected to unquestionably listen and follow their medical diagnosis.

Also, do not be surprised if you are seen, asked questions, given a medicine prescription, and out the door in less than 5 minutes.

(I don't joke about this. I have timed other patients in a hospital; average time was 2 and a half minutes from time being called to see the Doctor, until the time the same patient is walking out the door.)

(But, to be fair, this was Korean citizen patients, not foreigners.)

The Doctor spends a few years going to Medical College; the more prestigious, the better it is for working in one of the "top-notch" Hospitals, such as Samsung Hospital in Seoul.

Now, why I say humorous -

A few years ago I accompanied my wife to a small Clinic where we live (nothing serious).

The Doctor diagnosed the problem and prescribed medication.

I then asked my wife to translate for me; I had a few questions for the Doctor.

After answering about three questions of mine (with my wife translating), the Doctor was getting exasperated, and then said, "I am the Doctor" (for my wife to translate to me).

I knew by the Doctor's tone of voice that my questions were finished being answered by him.

One item not commonly given here in Korea (and I believe it's very important to a patient) is whether or not prescribed medication will affect other medications, such as not mixing different types of medications.

(NOTE: an item I forgot to add yesterday - )
When you are prescribed the medication by the Doctor, the Hospital Pharmacy will fill the order; however, the way the medication is packaged, you will not know what the name of the mediation is.

Korean-prescribed medication, while high-quality, is not labeled with the information as to type, amount, etc. You must ensure!! that you ask the Doctor exactly what type of medication and name of the mediation is, for any future information you may require.

With you being a foreigner here in South Korea, I would hope that you do not experience the "I'm the Doctor" type answer that I received, but that the Doctor exercise patience and understanding when it comes to foreigners.

But rest assured, South Korean medical standards is among the very best in the world. I doubt very seriously you will experience any negative attitudes about Korean hospitals.

Thank you for the Best Answer Vote.

Feel confident when going to the Doctor; ask your questions; after all, it's your health. Report It

I think in Korea and everywhere else the doctor is "the boss." As a patient, you are depending on the doctor's expertise to identify and treat whatever problem you are experiencing.
The doctors in Korea are very professional and polite. Many of them can speak some English too. I've never had a bad experience.

yeah

Definitely the doctor. If they actually spend more than five minutes "examining" you watch out--needless and expensive tests are on the way!