Medical Board & AHPRA Regulations – Effective 1st July 2023
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR OUR PATIENTS
Commencing from July 1st, 2023, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulatory Agency (AHPRA) and the Medical Board of Australia introduced a series of new regulations governing Cosmetic Surgery patients, as well as, Guidelines for registered medical practitioners who perform and advertise cosmetic surgery and procedures.
These enhanced regulations have been implemented to not only ensure the protection of patients but to enhance the level of care provided during the cosmetic surgery journey.
Important Changes For Patients
GP Referral: A referral from a General Practitioner (GP) will be mandatory for all patients undergoing consultation for cosmetic surgery.
Consultation Requirements: Patients must attend a minimum of two consultations before undergoing cosmetic surgery.
Pre-screening Assessment Test (PAT): A pre-screening assessment test for Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) will be conducted.
Cooling-off Period: Patients must observe a cooling-off period of at least seven days after signing a consent form before proceeding with surgery, including booking and making deposits.
Informed Consent Process: A more detailed informed consent document and process has been implemented.
Higher Standards in Training and Experience: Doctors will have to meet higher standards in terms of training and experience, including Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements.
Accredited Facilities: Surgical procedures must take place in accredited facilities.
Use of Medical Titles: Stricter regulations regarding the use of medical titles like “Surgeon.”
Tougher Advertising Standards: Advertising standards for cosmetic surgery will be more stringent.
Tougher Advertising Standards
Website Modifications: Our website is currently undergoing significant modifications to align with the updated advertising guidelines for cosmetic surgery.
Content Revision: Written content on our website is currently under review and revision to ensure compliance with the new advertising regulations.
Before and After Photos: We are in the process of editing our Before and After photo sections to adhere to the guidelines. As a result, we have take down some photos due to non-compliance.
Future Photo Availability: We will be reintroducing a wider selection of Before and After photos as soon as possible.
As we work on these website updates, our primary aim is to provide accurate, transparent, and relevant information in line with the new guidelines. This is crucial for both medical professionals and patients. Staying informed through reputable medical associations and official sources is essential to keep track of any further guideline changes.
A note from us
These updates aren’t just about adhering to rules; they are about ensuring patient safety, improving the quality of care, and upholding the industry’s standards. It’s important for patients to understand that these changes emphasize transparency, ethical practices, and ongoing enhancement. Keep up-to-date by checking official sources and have open conversations with healthcare providers.
All these changes contribute to a safer and more reputable cosmetic surgery experience for patients.
For more information, we suggest you refer to the reforms at a glance document or the Medical Board’s official website.
