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Prescribing For Others in Aesthetics

Prescribing For Others in Aesthetics

 

Prescribing is a qualification that medical professionals work hard to earn and in aesthetics we know some less principled practitioners are willing to prescribe for underqualified injectors and often without a face to face consultation.  This shouldn’t necessarily deter good prescribers from helping fellow healthcare professionals (HCPs) who are without a prescribing qualification or working towards one.

So if you are considering, or have been approached to prescribe for a fellow HCP what should you think about?

Safety is paramount when prescribing for someone else to administer, you want to be confident that if any issues arise you can testify you were satisfied with their abilities and qualifications.

Training – It’s important to know that the HCP you prescribe for has had the thorough training you would expect to receive yourself.  Knowing they can perform the treatments competently and be able to recognise and treat complications is important

Ability – After checking their training on paper, it’s a good idea to observe them perform treatments like dermal fillers or Botox to see they can perform these treatments properly and safely,

Insurance – All HCPs should have insurance, it’s part of their professional codes and essential before treating a patient.  Make sure you see an up to date copy with their aesthetic treatments on the policy.  Likewise it is important you check with your insurer you are insured to prescribe for another professional too.

Premises – Are their premises suitable for treatments, clinical, sterile with washing equipment and first aid provisions?  Would you be happy to have a treatment in their space?

Medical Status – This may be a no-brainer but make sure you check their medical pin on their council website to see there are no suspensions and they are able to practice without restrictions.

These are all the basics you want to check before entering into a prescribing contract and you must remember that even after treatment the responsibility for the patient still falls with the prescriber.  You must perform a face to face consultation so you can be sure the patient is physically and mentally suitable and be able to justify your prescription should any problems occur that may put you in front of your medical council or legal action.  How much you charge for your prescriptions is at your discretion, but a typical charge would be £30-£40 per patient.

If you are satisfied with the above points then go with your gut.  Prescribing for others is an important responsibility but it doesn’t have to be scary, you may be the helping hand they need in their career and embarking on their own prescribing qualification.