Core Insights - The online consultation market in China is experiencing explosive growth, driven by the fast-paced modern lifestyle and increasing health awareness among the population. The market size is projected to reach 69.54 billion yuan in 2024, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 23.4% [1][11]. Online Consultation Industry Overview - Online consultation refers to a medical service model that allows patients to communicate with doctors remotely via internet platforms, breaking geographical barriers and utilizing various communication methods such as video, text, and voice [2]. - The industry has evolved through three main stages: the nascent phase (2000-2014), the initiation phase (2015-2016), and the rapid development phase (2017-present) [4][5]. Industry Development and Trends - The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of online consultations, leading to increased government support and policy initiatives aimed at promoting remote medical services [6]. - The number of healthcare institutions in China is projected to grow from 1,007,600 in 2019 to 1,093,600 in 2024, driven by rising healthcare demands due to an aging population and chronic disease prevalence [8][9]. Competitive Landscape - The online consultation industry features a diverse competitive landscape, including comprehensive medical platforms, specialized medical platforms, and pharmaceutical e-commerce platforms. Major players include Ping An Good Doctor, JD Health, and Alibaba Health [11][12]. Future Development Directions - The integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data is expected to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of online consultation services [13]. - Establishing a robust regulatory framework for medical service quality is crucial for the sustainable development of the online consultation industry, addressing challenges such as verifying medical qualifications and ensuring accurate diagnoses [14]. - Data security and privacy protection are paramount, as the industry handles sensitive patient information. Strengthening data management practices and employing advanced encryption technologies are essential for safeguarding patient data [15].