Ensuring safety in delivery of aesthetic medical care

PERSATUAN Doktor Estetik Berdaftar Malaysia (PDEBM) welcomes and fully supports the Health Ministry’s recent announcement on strengthening enforcement against healthcare services operating from unregistered or unlicensed premises under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act 1998 (Act 586), “Only premises registered or licensed under Act 586 may provide healthcare services, says Health Ministry” (The Star, June 3).

Statistics released by the ministry are deeply concerning: more than 1,020 complaints have been received over the past five years involving healthcare services conducted in premises that are not registered or licensed, and the number of complaints is increasing annually.

These figures reflect growing public concern over the safety of patients and the legitimacy of those providing such services.

Of particular concern is the increasing number of aesthetic medical procedures being offered outside licensed healthcare facilities. Treatments are reportedly being performed in beauty salons, residential homes, hotel rooms, office units and other locations that are neither designed nor approved for the provision of medical care.

While such arrangements may appear convenient or attractive to consumers, they can expose patients to significant and avoidable risks.

Many aesthetic procedures involve the use of prescription medicines, injectable products, lasers, energy-based devices and other interventions that require proper medical assessment, diagnosis, treatment planning and post-procedure care.

Like any medical treatment, these procedures carry risks and potential complications that must be anticipated and managed appropriately.

When medical procedures are performed outside licensed premises, patients may not have access to the medical care that is expected in a regulated healthcare environment. These include infection prevention measures, emergency equipment, proper medical records, informed consent processes, trained personnel and established clinical governance systems.

Complications such as severe allergic reactions, infections, burns, vascular compromise, scarring and even vision-threatening events may require urgent medical intervention.

The requirement for aesthetic medical procedures to be conducted within licensed healthcare facilities should not be viewed as a mere administrative obligation. It is a fundamental patient safety measure established to ensure that medical services are delivered in an environment that meets recognised standards of quality, safety and accountability.

PDEBM also supports the Health Ministry’s commitment to continuing enforcement against those who operate illegally and those who facilitate such activities. Regulatory compliance is not simply about adhering to legislation; it is also about protecting the public from preventable harm and maintaining trust in the medical profession.

Members of the public should exercise caution when considering aesthetic treatments. Patients are encouraged to verify that the practitioner is a registered medical doctor holding a valid Annual Practising Certificate and that the procedure is being performed in a licensed healthcare facility.

These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of complications and help ensure that appropriate care is available should problems arise.

The Health Ministry’s recent enforcement initiative sends a clear message that patient safety cannot be compromised. PDEBM commends this decisive action and remains committed to supporting efforts that uphold professional standards, strengthen public confidence and ensure that aesthetic medical care in Malaysia is delivered safely, ethically and responsibly.

DR UNGKU MOHD SHARIN MOHD ZAMAN

President

Persatuan Doktor Estetik Berdaftar Malaysia (PDEBM)