Doctors who carry out cosmetic procedures in the UK have been issued with updated guidance from the General Medical Council (GMC) to help better protect patients.
From June onwards surgical and non-surgical procedures will be covered by new guidance designed to clarify the obligations doctors have towards their patients. The GMC regulates all doctors in the UK.
The new guidance says that doctors must:
- Advertise and market services responsibly
- Give patients time for reflection
- Seek a patent’s consent themselves
- Provide continuity of care
- Support patient safety
These new rules meant that 'two for one' or similar offers are not to be used and procedures should not be offered as a prize. The doctor who carries out a procedure is also responsible for ensuring that the patient understands the risks involved and fully consents to the procedure. Firms are also banned from making 'unjustifiable claims' about the procedures offered.
Professor Terence Stephenson, Chair of the GMC, explained: “Our new guidance is designed to help drive up standards in the cosmetic industry and make sure all patients, and especially those who are most vulnerable, are given the care, treatment and support they need.”
Sir Bruce Keogh added: “The independent review I chaired, following the PIP breast implant scandal, highlighted major problems with unsafe practices in the cosmetic sector […] This marks an important step forward for patient protection across a wide range of cosmetic and lifestyle procedures, including areas such as laser eye surgery.”
PIP scandal campaigner, Catherine Kydd, said: “The GMC’s new guidance will significantly strengthen the protection patients have, and make it easier for them to seek action if things do go wrong. It’s a big step forward for patients.”
The Royal College of Surgeons will also publish its own set of guidelines to supplement the advice from GMC. A guide for patients is also being drawn up to offer advice and information on things to consider and questions to ask their doctor.
