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These standards are designed to improve patient care, ensuring that all procedures are performed in licensed, accredited facilities that comply with national safety guidelines. Accreditation for these standards is expected to begin this year (2025).
All cosmetic surgery facilities across Australia must adhere to these standards, regardless of location. State and territory regulators are working with the ACSQHC to ensure compliance and safeguard public confidence in the industry by enforcing the highest safety protocols.2
The NSQCSS apply to a wide range of surgical cosmetic procedures,1 including:
These standards do not currently cover non-surgical cosmetic procedures,1 such as:
However, non-surgical standards are being developed and are expected to align with the existing National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards.
Three core documents form the foundation of compliance with the NSQCSS:
These documents outline specific actions and requirements needed to maintain the highest standards of safety and quality in clinics.
The Module is a crucial compliance tool designed to streamline the accreditation process for clinics. It enables clinics to be evaluated against both the NSQHS and the NSQCSS in a single assessment.
The module includes 20 specific requirements for cosmetic procedures, with 11 new criteria and nine closely aligned with the NSQHS standards.3 Meeting these additional requirements is vital for any facility aiming for accreditation.
Practitioners can refer to the Map of the Cosmetic Surgery Standards5 for a detailed comparison between the cosmetic surgery standards and the NSQHS standards.
Adhering to the NSQCSS entails several crucial responsibilities for both practitioners and facilities:
Conduct thorough psychological assessments using validated screening tools to identify conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder. Ensure these assessments are meticulously documented in the patient’s medical records.
Provide comprehensive information to patients in a language they understand verbally and in writing. This includes:
By fulfilling these responsibilities, practitioners and facilities can ensure they meet the NSQCSS requirements and provide safe, informed care to their patients.
Clinics must implement comprehensive documentation processes to meet the new standards. This includes maintaining a detailed map of the Cosmetic Surgery Standards and ensuring all intake protocols align with the module’s requirements. Regular reviews and updates to procedures may be necessary to maintain compliance. It is recommended to designate a staff member, such as a manager or nurse, to oversee the compliance process and ensure all team members understand and implement the standards.
As accreditation approaches, clinics must prepare for the assessment process by thoroughly documenting their adherence to the new standards. Essential steps include developing process manuals, training staff on new protocols and designating individuals to manage compliance.
By ensuring adherence to the NSQCSS, clinics will significantly improve patient safety and elevate the quality of care in the cosmetic surgery industry.
READ THE NATIONAL SAFETY AND QUALITY COSMETIC SURGERY STANDARDS
1. National Safety and Quality Cosmetic Surgery Standards (NSQCSS). Accessed June 11, 2024, from https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/standards/national-safety-and-quality-cosmetic-surgery-standards
2. Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (ACSQHC). Accessed June 11, 2024, from https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/
3. Cosmetic Surgery Module. Accessed June 11, 2024, from https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/publications-and-resources/resource-library/cosmetic-surgery-module
4. The guidelines for medical practitioners who perform cosmetic surgery and procedures. Accessed June 11, 2024, from https://www.ahpra.gov.au/documents/default.aspx?record=WD23%2f32712&dbid=AP&chksum=jvtu2aCeCdCAJ8jyv2HLoA%3d%3d
5. Map of the Cosmetic Surgery Standards. Accessed June 11, 2024, from https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/node/8926
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