Building upon recent reforms in the regulation of cosmetic surgery, AHPRA’s attention has shifted towards enhancing the regulatory framework for registered health practitioners involved in the non-surgical cosmetic procedures sector in Australia. The aim is to elevate standards, improve overall practice, enhance public safety, and empower consumers with more informed choices. The new Guidelines will come into effect early 2024.
The non-surgical cosmetic procedures sector presents distinctive characteristics that contribute to heightened public risks, including:
Insufficient clarity regarding the qualifications and experience of practitioners within the sector.
Advertisements that downplay the risks and complexities of procedures or suggest unrealistic outcomes.
A notable presence of young and potentially vulnerable individuals seeking such procedures.
The creation of demand and the practice of 'upselling' procedures and products.
Instances where financial gain competes with, and at times surpasses, patient well-being and safety considerations.
The persistent financial burden and frequency of procedures required by patients to maintain desired outcomes.
AHPRA is currently seeking feedback on the regulation of registered health practitioners engaged in the performance and promotion of non-surgical cosmetic procedures. The documents include:
Draft Guidelines tailored for nurses involved in non-surgical cosmetic procedures (Nurses Practice Guidelines). These guidelines delineate the distinct roles and practice scopes of enrolled nurses, registered nurses, and nurse practitioners within the non-surgical cosmetic procedures sector. They are grounded in the Draft Guidelines designed for registered health practitioners conducting non-surgical cosmetic procedures (Shared Practice Guidelines).
Draft Guidelines addressing registered health practitioners performing non-surgical cosmetic procedures (Shared Practice Guidelines). These guidelines are applicable to all registered health practitioners engaged in non-surgical cosmetic procedures, excluding registered medical practitioners and nurses who will receive profession-specific guidance.
Draft Guidelines for registered health practitioners engaged in the advertising of non-surgical cosmetic procedures (Advertising Guidelines). These guidelines are designed for all registered health practitioners involved in the promotion of non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
The proposed guidelines aim to enhance public safety in areas of non-surgical cosmetic practice and advertising where there might be an elevated risk to the public.