HealthCert Blog

There is an increasing demand for aesthetic treatments in Australia, with Australians now spending over $1 billion every year on cosmetic procedures – 40 per cent greater than Americans per capita. Our enthusiasm for looking our best includes everything from basic peels and laser treatments through to cosmetic injectables and dermal fillers.

As the aesthetic medicine landscape evolves, how can primary care physicians get involved and why are they best placed to offer aesthetic services to the public?

An engaged client base

Primary care doctors are already patients’ first point of call when it comes to managing their skin problems. Around 11.5% of GP visits each year are for skin concerns, so expanding your repertoire of skills in this category can help complement the services you already offer.

As aesthetic treatments grow in popularity, the stigma and secrecy surrounding a patient’s choice is changing. Patients are more likely to speak openly about cosmetic enhancements. Research shows that 81 per cent of people who undergo cosmetic procedures tell their close friends about it, an increase of 28% since 2013.

With an increase in cosmetic procedures and more people speaking openly about their experiences, your patients will be your best asset in helping you expand your client base.

Repeat customers

Taking a more holistic approach to your patients’ needs helps them to regain their confidence and improve their appearance, and builds a level of rapport between doctor and patient that assures return visits.

Most aesthetic treatments are safe, quick and low-cost-to-deliver. Patients benefit from immediately visible results, minimal side-effects and no downtime, while your practice sees repeat visits and a reliable means of building non-Medicare based revenue.

A trusted source

Patients prefer to receive aesthetic treatments from a trusted, qualified medical doctor rather than from a cosmetic injector or beautician.

Patients may be apprehensive about getting started on their journey, and feel a greater level of comfort getting cosmetic procedures from their known doctor rather than from a dermatologist, of which there is a limited number in Australia. Further, your patients may prefer small, quick treatments rather than costly and complicated surgeries offered by plastic surgeons.

Are you prepared to meet the growing demand for aesthetic treatments?

Read more recent research.

To learn more, please join us at the next Certificate Courses in Aesthetic Medicine.