In a significant move to enhance patient safety and combat unqualified practitioners, Spain’s Ministry of Health has introduced stricter regulations on who can perform cosmetic surgeries. As of Sunday, only professionals with specialised training in cosmetic surgery will be permitted to carry out these procedures, according to an official decree published by the government.
Combatting unqualified practitioners
The Ministry of Health, led by Mónica García, has acted to address growing concerns over the rise of unauthorised and unqualified individuals performing cosmetic surgeries. The new regulation modifies the 2003 Royal Decree governing the authorisation of healthcare centres, services, and establishments. With cosmetic surgery on the rise, both in demand and the number of clinics offering these services, the government aims to ensure that only properly trained professionals conduct these procedures, thereby safeguarding patients from dangerous practices.
🔴 Solo podrán realizar operaciones de estética los médicos con la especialidad en Cirugía Plástica, Estética y Reparadora u otra especialidad quirúrgica o médico-quirúrgica que incluya competencias en cirugía estética en su programa formativo. pic.twitter.com/2205KkBxND
— Ministerio de Sanidad (@sanidadgob) September 21, 2024
By limiting the practice of cosmetic surgery to doctors with specific training in Plastic, Aesthetic, and Reconstructive Surgery, or other medical or surgical specialisations that include competencies in aesthetic procedures, the government hopes to significantly reduce the number of malpractice cases. The measure also brings Spain in line with a 2022 non-binding resolution passed by the Congress, which urged the government to “strengthen regulations to prevent unqualified practices and ensure that all medical activities are performed by duly qualified professionals.”
A victory for patient safety
Minister García, in a public video, highlighted the importance of the new regulations, describing them as “a significant victory for patient safety.” She made specific reference to the tragic case of Sara, a woman who lost her life after undergoing a cosmetic procedure at an unauthorised clinic. “This is an important step towards a safer healthcare system,” García stated. “We are ensuring that such tragedies do not repeat themselves.”
The updated regulations not only clarify the roles and responsibilities of professionals involved in cosmetic surgery but also reinforce the definition of the Unit of Aesthetic Surgery, ensuring that only those with the necessary qualifications will be allowed to perform such procedures.
Looking ahead
With the new law coming into force, the Spanish government aims to curb the influx of unqualified practitioners in the cosmetic surgery field. Moreover, it is a clear message that patient safety is paramount, and that proper training and accreditation are non-negotiable. This move marks a pivotal moment in Spain’s healthcare policy, reflecting the growing need to regulate sectors that directly impact public health and wellbeing.
The Ministry of Health has indicated that further measures could be introduced in the future to strengthen this regulatory framework, ensuring that Spain remains a leader in patient protection within the field of aesthetic medicine.