Staying up to date with TGA & AHPRA compliance regulations can often feel overwhelming. Whether you're a Registered Nurse or a Clinic Owner, navigating the licenses, permits, and insurance requirements is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of your business.
Fresh Members recently heard from Jo, our Head of Compliance, for tips on making compliance a walk in the park, and not a daunting task.
Why Compliance Matters
Compliance in the aesthetic industry is a non-negotiable, not only for legal reasons but also for maintaining high standards of patient care and safety. Regulatory bodies have established guidelines for a reason; to ensure that both patients and practitioners are protected. Being compliant means adhering to rules set out for licenses, permits, training, and insurance.
Registration and Experience
Cosmetic Nurses need at least 12 months of post-graduate experience in a medical setting. This experience can be gained in hospitals, aged-care facilities, dermatology clinics, or similar specialties like plastic surgery. Jo explained, “To be a cosmetic nurse, you need a lot more experience than just injecting.”
Training
If a nurse has less than two years of injecting experience, additional assessments or training is important. Proof of such training is essential, and it’s something Clinic Owners should look for when hiring.
Professional Indemnity Insurance
Nurses must have Professional Indemnity Insurance, which covers various risks associated with cosmetic injectables. The amount of coverage required can differ, often ranging between five to ten million dollars. It's advisable to discuss this with an insurance provider to determine the best coverage for your specific practice. Don’t have an insurance provider to go to? Fresh Clinics can refer you to one through our Expert Hub resources.
Licenses and Permits
The requirements for licenses and permits can vary greatly depending on your state or local council. For instance, Queensland clinics need a Personal Appearance Services License for cosmetic injecting. Jo advises, “Always check with your local council to understand what is required for your clinic to avoid potential fines.”
Physical Setup
A compliant clinic also needs to meet several physical standards including:- Signage and flooring: Proper signage and hard floors (no carpets)
- Hand washing facilities: These might require non-touch taps depending on the state
- Adjustable treatment beds
- Sharps bin
- Lockable storage and fridge for S4 medications*
Emergency Medication Management
Nurses must maintain a meticulous record of drugs and emergency medications like hyaluronidase (HILA) and adrenaline. Always ensure these medications are in date and documented appropriately.
Effective from September 1st 2024, new protocols require two boxes of Hyalase for emergencies. This change stems from recent vascular occlusions that required more than the previously mandated five ampules. Jo stressed the importance: “I can assure you, you would be happy if you’ve got two boxes if a VO ever happens.”
Practical Tips
- Stay Updated on TGA & AHPRA Regulations: Regulations can change. Regularly check with local councils and regulatory bodies to stay informed about new or updated compliance requirements
- Reliable Insurance Providers: Providers like WestRock and CNI specialise in cosmetic injectables and can help ensure you get the coverage you need
Navigating compliance in cosmetic clinics may seem like a complex challenge, but understanding the core requirements, and utilising the right resources, can make it much more manageable. Prioritise patient safety by adhering to regulations and keep your business running smoothly by staying informed and prepared.