The British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) has launched a new "Vet It Before You Get It” campaign to help patients make safe, informed decisions before undergoing aesthetic procedures. BCAM is urging the public to pause and ask critical safety questions before booking.

This initiative comes in response to BCAM’s 2025 Annual Clinical Review, which revealed over 3,000 complications treated by BCAM doctors in 2024, 67% of which were caused by non-medical practitioners, and 87% involving dermal fillers.

The Six-Step Safety Checklist

BCAM’s Pre-Consultation Safety Questionnaire is a free, downloadable tool designed to help patients find a safe med spa or practitioner. It covers six key areas:

1. Professional Credentials

• Is the practitioner registered with GMC, GDC, NMC, or GPhC?
• Nurses must have a V300 prescriber qualification.
• Can they provide active registration numbers?

2. Verification and Supervision

• Non-medical practitioners must show formal aesthetic qualifications.
• Who supervises their clinical work, and how is it managed?

3. Insurance and Professional Membership

• Is the practitioner covered by valid medical indemnity insurance?
• Are they members of recognized bodies like BCAM, JCCP, or SaveFace?

4. Products, Equipment, and Standards

• Are all injectables CE/UKCA-marked or FDA-approved?
• Can you view packaging and batch details?
• Are IV drip ingredients pharmacy-compounded under sterile conditions?

5. Safety and Emergency Protocols

• What is the clinic’s protocol for complications?
• Do they have emergency drugs and equipment on-site?
• Is there an out-of-hours emergency contact?

6. Clinic Governance

• Is the clinic registered with a regulatory body like the CQC?

BCAM strongly advises patients to walk away if a practitioner cannot clearly answer these questions or provide proof of compliance.

While BCAM’s guidance is based on UK regulations, the principles of safety, transparency, and accountability apply everywhere. In the U.S., AmSpa champions similar safety guidelines through education, advocacy, and resources that help patients and providers navigate the complex regulatory landscape.

AmSpa members are rooted in purpose

Together, AmSpa Members take steps every day to elevate standards, protect patients, and ensure the long-term prosperity of medical aesthetics:

• Continuing education and advanced training;
• Transparent patient education and informed consent;
• Keeping the "medical" in medical spas with patient-centered care;
• A commitment to compliance and safety; and
• Advocacy for a stronger, more sustainable future for the industry.

Protect yourself and your practice

For patients:

• Download BCAM’s Pre-Consultation Safety Questionnaire
• A Patient's Guide to Medical Spas
• What to Look for in a Safe Med Spa Visit
• How Much Training Do Safe Med Spa Practitioners Need?

For providers:

• Join AmSpa for access to compliance tools, business training, and legal support.
• Elevate your clinic’s standards with Standard Operating Procedures, Informed Consents, and more – package is free to Plus Members!
• Explore clinician-designed IV therapy and injectables toolkits.
• Learn from top experts in the field: Webinar Library and AmSpa Masters.

Explore AmSpa Membership and resources to level up your practice and join the most supportive community in medical aesthetics.