On April 1, 2026, China implemented a landmark national standard: Classification and Determination of TCM Constitution. Although designated as a recommended rather than mandatory standard, it represents a major step in modernizing traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) by converting traditional constitution theory into a clear, measurable and clinically practical framework. By clarifying the relationship between constitution, disease, and pattern differentiation, the standard strengthens professional credibility, supports research, and enhances patient-centered treatment.
Julie T. Chen, MD
Dr. Julie T. Chen is board-certified in internal medicine and is also fellowship-trained board-certified in integrative medicine. She has her own medical practice in San Jose, Calif. and also works as the wellness physician for several Silicon Valley-based corporations. She incorporates many healing modalities into her practice including: medical acupuncture, Chinese scalp acupuncture, and clinical hypnotherapy.