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Dept of Health

Answer

Ann Clwyd: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations he has received on the regulation of private cosmetic surgery. [106252] Ms Stuart: We have received a number of representations about the need to regulate more effectively premises where cosmetic surgery and laser treatment for cosmetic purposes are provided. We recognise that greater assurance for the public is needed about the safety and quality of the treatment being provided in this area. We therefore intend to introduce improved regulation of independent healthcare services, including premises where cosmetic surgery is performed, medical treatment is provided under anaesthesia or sedation, and where certain laser treatment is provided. These measures are included in the provisions of our Care Standards Bill. Our aim is to achieve more effective regulation to assure the quality of private cosmetic surgery, the adequacy of information for patients and would-be patients, the safety of the technology and equipment used, including laser treatment, and the effectiveness of complaints procedures when things do go wrong. We are confident that this will provide the enhanced safeguards and assurance of standards in private cosmetic surgery.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

343 c554W; 106252

Session

1999-00

Question not reached

Yes

Subjects

Lasers Private sector Medical treatments Plastic surgery Standards Regulation