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.
Yemeng Chen, PhD, LAc
Dr. Yemeng Chen graduated from Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 1985. After that, he worked as an instructor in Shanghai Medical University and practiced as a physician in the affiliated Huashan Hospital, becoming the director of the acupuncture department in 1989. Dr. Chen has more than 30 research papers published in various medical journals in different countries and has also published 10 acupuncture books, including two large-scale reference works. He is currently president of New York College of Traditional Chinese Medicine.