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AMM 174: MedSkin Laser Crisis Unauthorized Procedures Exposed
August 19, 2024
This episode delves into the recent critical advisory issued by Health Canada concerning MedSkin Laser Center in Sherwood Park. Unauthorized cosmetic procedures, including PRP treatments and unapproved Botox injections, were reportedly being performed by unqualified individuals. The episode explores the regulatory breach, the owner’s response, and the broader implications for the medical aesthetics industry. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of regulatory adherence and the importance of qualified medical personnel in cosmetic procedures.
Quick Takes
- Unauthorized cosmetic procedures, including PRP treatments, were conducted at MedSkin Laser Center by individuals without proper medical qualifications.
- Health Canada requires only doctors or licensed nurses to carry out these treatments, posing a serious breach of policy at the clinic.
- Health Canada updated their policies in 2019, restricting PRP procedures to doctors and nurses only, causing concern for clinic owner Christine Francouer who was unaware of the regulations until recently.
Episode Transcript
Health Canada has issued a critical advisory concerning MedSkin Laser Center in Sherwood Park. According to the agency, unauthorized cosmetic procedures, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatments also known as vampire facials, were being conducted by individuals without proper medical qualifications. This includes services like platelet rich fibrin treatments for various body parts, unapproved Botox injections, microneedling, and plasma pen procedures.
Only doctors or licensed nurses are permitted to carry out these treatments, making this a serious breach of policy. The owner, Christine Francouer, defends her clinic, stating she was unaware of Health Canada’s regulations until recently. Francouer argues she believed her certification from the British Columbia Academy of Medical Aesthetics and Skin Care in 2017 was sufficient.
It’s worth noting, Health Canada updated their policies in 2019, restricting PRP procedures to doctors and nurses only. Francouer learned about this during a recent inspection. She emphasizes the need for a regulatory body to oversee the medical aesthetics industry, expressing frustration over the lack of oversight for clinics not run by dermatologists or other physicians.
As of today, August 19, 2024, Francouer hopes this incident won’t tarnish her reputation and remains optimistic that clients will understand the situation and continue to trust her services.
