A Northamptonshire GP has welcomed new legislation banning doctors from prescribing BOTOX® ‘remotely’ by phone, fax or online, following new guidance introduced by the General Medical Council (GMC).
The GMC ruling, which came into force on 23 July 2012, is designed to stop unqualified practitioners from endangering people who may not be properly assessed or ready for cosmetic procedures.
Dr. John Tanqueray, a member of the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors and owner of the Mulberry House Clinic in Northampton, commented:
“This legislation is long overdue and comes as a welcome development for patients seeking professional, one-to-one and safe cosmetic advice and practice.
“Before the GMC’s intervention there have been a number of unqualified people obtaining BOTOX® through ‘remote’ prescriptions. This has meant a lack of proper oversight of BOTOX® use, its administration and in some cases necessary medical insurance.”
As well as treating patients, Dr. Tanqueray also provides training to plastic surgeons, doctors and nurses in the professional use of cosmetic medical products and techniques.
He continues:
“BOTOX® is used for various cosmetic and medical procedures and has proved particularly successful in the reduction and removal of facial wrinkles. We treat around 1,200 patients each year who are seeking a range of aesthetic improvements.
“Our clients are mostly women between 30-60 years old, often professionals in demanding jobs who want to look their best. We are also seeing a growing number of men with similar requirements.
“Some people have a psychological or hereditary concern about their appearance, but in all cases it is important they are assessed by a qualified and experienced doctor who can help them decide whether cosmetic action is the best solution.”
