“Traditional Chinese Medicine + Chinese” Education Mode helps the Global Spread of Excellent Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture

This study explores the “Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)+Chinese” education model and its role in promoting global dissemination of TCM culture, based on empirical research in nine Thai universities. Facing challenges of language barriers and cultural differences in TCM communication, the model integrates TCM professional education with Chinese language training to cultivate localized talents proficient in both TCM practice and cross-cultural communication. Findings reveal that the model, featuring a 5–6-year curriculum with 25%–30% Chinese language credits and HSK Level 5 requirements, has effectively addressed terminological translation issues and improved clinical communication efficiency. Supported by Thai policies and Sino-Thai academic collaboration, the model has fostered 2194 registered TCM practitioners and a nationwide service network by 2024. It demonstrates that integrating professional competence, language proficiency, and cultural understanding can transform TCM from a “Chinese experience” to a “global solution,” providing a paradigm for international TCM education and cultural soft power enhancement

Alternative medicine · Chinese education · Chinese language · Curriculum · Traditional Chinese medicine · Complementary and Alternative Medicine Studies · Cultural Competency in Health Care · Traditional Chinese Medicine Studies