Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Sophomorik]

as winter has descended upon us, i have become the victim of an autoimmune skin disease called PSORIASIS. i now have random red spots all over my face. this typically comes as a result of a serious lack of sunlight, cold weather and stress.

i had it as a kid when i lived in pennsylvania. at the time i was prescribed a drug called OLUX. it was a steroid foam and it knocked the shit right out. however, i've been trying to convince the doctors here in korea that OLUX should take care of the problem. however, they keep prescribing me weaker creams and lotions that don't really do much.

with the exception of the international clinic in itaewon (they weren't much help either), where can i find a dermatologist/doctor to fill out a prescription for OLUX?

much appreciated!

[bassexpander]

Number 7 on the map (the 7 looks almost like a 1):

http://eng-healthpia.gangnam.go.kr/html_eng/contents/theme_04.html

They usually speak English at all Lee Ji ham places (the doctors, anyway).

[whome?]

You may have an issue beyond finding someone to write the script. You need to find somewhere that actually has it.

Yesterday I went to get a pain killer, but either no one had it or no one would give it to me. This despite having a prescription.

If worse comes to worse I can dig around for my old cream; I have psoriasis as well, though I have not had a single outbreak in 4 years. no idea of the expiry date, but I can take a look.

Let me know if you need it. I am leaving Korea soon, so no biggie for me.

[oldtactics]

The high-end skin clinics in Apgujeong are pretty good about giving people whatever they want. If you ask the doctors for your prescription right off the bat and be clear about it, they should give you what you need. Don't worry about whether you're being too pushy, you're the customer.

I've been to two different clinics there and both doctors spoke English well enough to understand what I wanted and understand me when I say no to the microdermabrasion procedures that they always try to pimp on people.

[kami]

I would recommend seeing the dermatologist at Dream Dermatology in Apgujeong. It's in the same building as Hooters (near the station, exit 4 I think). The doctor speaks perfect English and is "westernized" (studied abroad, his parents were diplomats), and is very nice and will be able to help you.

You could also try Asan hospital near Jamsil. Make an appointment with a doctor in the international clinic (both are nice and speak great English) and tell them your problem. They will probably refer you to the dermatology department. The dermatologists speak English and although appointments are very quick, after a few visits, I finally got what I needed. You have to be persistent. Also, research the drug you need and see if there's a Korean equivalent and ask for that. In my experience, Korean doctors handout meds like candy.

Good luck and don't give up.