New cosmetic surgery licensing laws to protect vulnerable patients
The New South Wales Government has published a regulation under the Private Health Facilities Act 2007 to amend the Private Health Facilities Regulation 2010 to ensure that cosmetic surgery (excluding dental surgery) will be subject to the same licensing requirements that currently apply to private health facilities.
The new law specifically aims to protect the most vulnerable patients, such as those undergoing surgeries for breast augmentation or reduction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), large volume liposuction and facial implants. Those private health facilities that perform procedures of this type will be given nine months to obtain the correct licensing.
Health Minister Jillian Skinner commented that “a NSW Health discussion paper informed the changes made today, which will ensure a safer regulatory environment for patients undergoing selected cosmetic surgical procedures”.
To view the media release, click here.
To view the regulation, click here.
AHPRA prosecutes unregistered psychologist
The Adelaide Magistrates' Court has fined a South Australian man $7,500 and recorded a criminal conviction against him for knowingly and recklessly using the title "Psychologist" in breach of section 113 of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law. Mr Pierre Allauch was found to have used the title "Psychologist" in 2014, despite his registration as a psychologist lapsing in 2011.
AHPRA CEO Mr Martin Fletcher supported the decision, saying it demonstrated that anyone engaging in such conduct would face action, including potential criminal prosecution. The case highlights AHPRA's commitment to upholding the National Law and protecting the public from unregistered health practitioners.
A register of practitioners can be found on AHPRA's website. If a person's name appears on the register, they are registered as a health practitioner and can practice within the scope of their registration.
To view the register, click here.
