The Independent Healthcare Advisory Services (IHAS) has revealed that it is in the process of setting up a self-regulatory scheme for providers of non-cosmetic procedures.
Following an invitation from the Department of Health to help improve the safety of the cosmetic use of Botulinum toxin and dermal fillers, IHAS began to work closely with the Healthcare Commission to ensure that cosmetic laser treatment providers are all properly registered.
Amongst the many areas of self-regulation implemented so far is a vetting procedure to ensure that the Yellow Pages directory will not carry listings from unregistered providers. IHAS is hoping to extend this vetting to magazine advertising and then to relevent Scottish and Welsh agencies so that they can do the same.
Botulinum toxin, which is a prescription only compound, requires strong safeguards so that there can be transparency amongs the public over what they are buying.
As yet, the self-regulatory model has not been finalised. However, it is understood that the framework will encompass the following key points:
the establishment of clear objectives
the winning of industry support
the formation of accepted standards
straightforward registration and inspection
the creation of public awareness
robust governance.
