The recent tragic death of a liposuction patient at a spa in South Florida brings to light just how important it is for consumers to play an active role in evaluating the individuals and facilities performing their medical care.
As a practicing dermatologist in the Tampa Bay area for many years and president of the Florida Society of Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery (FSDDS), I know this is not an isolated incident.
Medical procedures are negligently and hazardously being offered to the public by unqualified individuals and institutions across the state. Technicians with little training are wielding lasers and syringes on unsuspecting patients. The results can be painful, disfiguring or worse.
The FSDDS has been working to educate consumers and advance legislation to prevent uncertified and unlicensed practitioners from performing cosmetic medical procedures. However, until that happens patients need to take every precaution to protect themselves when considering any medical procedure - cosmetic or otherwise.
The most important step is to do your homework. Don't be lured by a fancy office or brochure. Ensure the person and facility are both licensed and board-certified. Because just being a physician isn't enough in many cases, advanced education is necessary for competency. The stakes are just too high to throw caution to the wind.
The Florida Legislature updated laws to tighten regulations three years ago, which was a good start. But much more needs to be done to increase oversight to ensure the safety of patients. In the meantime, consumers can go to the American Board of Medical Specialties' Web site at www.abms.org to find out if their doctor is board-certified in an appropriate specialty.
ALBERT J. NEMETH
Clearwater
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