Opening a med spa, or medical spa, can be enriching, given the industry's rapid growth and the increasing demand for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. The aesthetics industry is projected to soar from its $35 billion worth in 2023 to $100 billion+ by 2035.
But while the potential is huge, setting up a med spa requires careful planning, industry knowledge, and compliance with medical regulations.
If you're considering starting a med spa, we’ve got some tips to help you navigate the process and set yourself up for success.
What Is a Med Spa?
A med spa blends the luxury and relaxation of a traditional day spa with advanced medical treatments. Services can range from non-surgical anti-aging procedures like Botox and dermal fillers to laser treatments, hair removal, and skin rejuvenation.
Unlike traditional spas, med spas often require a licensed physician as the owner or medical director, depending on state regulations. This ensures that all medical treatments meet strict safety and compliance standards.
Understanding the Med Spa Market
Before you dive into the logistics, it's important to have a clear vision of what you want your med spa to be. Consider your goals, target market, and the services you want to offer. Are you focusing on beauty, injectables, or device-based treatments? Defining your niche will help you create a strong brand identity and attract the right clientele.
Once your vision is clear, put together a comprehensive business plan. This should include market research, a competitor analysis, and financial projections. A well-thought-out business plan will help guide your decisions and secure financing if needed.
State Regulations
Each state has its own set of rules regarding who can own and operate a med spa, what procedures can be performed, and what type of licensing is required. In many states, med spas must be physician-owned or have a medical director who oversees operations. Partnering with experts such as Fresh Clinics can make this process seamless. We can help you navigate these requirements and ensure compliance every step of the way.
Medical Directorship and GFE’s
A Good Faith Exam (GFE) is a comprehensive consultation carried out by an authorized medical professional before any treatments are performed, and they play an important role in your med spa's safety.
Qualified medical professionals including physicians, physician assistants (PA), and advanced practice nurses (APN) are trusted with the responsibility of conducting these exams. At Fresh Clinics, your GFEs are made simple and efficient, with medical oversight from the top aesthetic professionals in the USA.
Invest in Technology and Equipment
Technology and devices are important to a successful med spa. Invest in high-quality equipment that is safe, effective, and reliable.
In addition to treatment equipment, consider the software you’ll use to manage your business. From medical directorship to electronic medical records (EMR), having the right technology in place will streamline operations and help you stay organized.
Legal Requirements and Insurance
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, better known as HIPAA, protects patient information from being disclosed without the patient's consent, and managing this data securely is non-negotiable. Use HIPAA-compliant software to protect sensitive information and keep your practice compliant.
The medical spa industry has specific insurance needs to cover the range of advanced aesthetic treatments and potential legal issues. Insurance is the best way to protect yourself and your team.
Invest in insurance tailored to the med spa industry, like:
In many states, med spas face strict rules about the corporate practice of medicine (CPOM). These regulations often prevent non-physicians from owning or profiting directly from medical services. That’s where MSOs step in.
An MSO is a separate business entity that manages all non-medical aspects of your med spa. This allows the clinical side to be handled by a licensed medical professional while you, the entrepreneur, oversee business operations.
Start Your Med Spa with Confidence with Fresh Clinics
Remember, you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Fresh Clinics is here to support you from launching to scaling your business.
Ready to take the first step? Chat with our team today.