An old man uses a computer to get an online medical diagnosis for his illness. [Photo: jzrt.com]

Chinese health regulators have issued a ban on hospitals providing online medical diagnosis.

Song Shuli is with the National Health and Family Planning Commission.

"Medical diagnoses should not be carried out on the Internet. Hospitals can offer online medical advice, but they should not make a diagnosis or give treatment."

Online medical diagnosis is becoming more common in China.

Song Shuli says the diagnosis is often provided by people without medical qualifications.

"Online medical services should only be provided by healthcare facilities. Hospitals and doctors should both be qualified for online diagnoses in a specific field. Facilities should strictly abide by the law and regulations during the process, and ensure patients' right to know information."

The Chinese government has created a pilot program allowing three Beijing-based hospitals to give online medical diagnosis to patients in 5 different regions of China.