Setting the Benchmark for Cosmetic Surgery: Why ACHS Accreditation is the preferred choice.

Cosmetic surgery in Australia is undergoing a transformation with the introduction of the National Safety and Quality Cosmetic Surgery Standards (the Cosmetic Surgery Standards) set by the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission).

The Cosmetic Surgery Standards, along with a suite of other reforms agreed to by the Australian Health Ministers in 2022 for the cosmetic surgery sector, aim to provide a robust framework to support patient safety, quality care, and transparency. ACHS is proud to be an approved accreditation agency to assess the Cosmetic Surgery Standards, and provides a trusted pathway to assessment that supports excellence, transparency, and continuous improvement.

What are the Cosmetic Surgery Standards?

The Cosmetic Surgery Standards comprise of seven individual standards. Together, these standards provide a framework for the implementation of safety and quality systems and are designed to mitigate risk relating to the delivery of clinical care where cosmetic surgery is performed. They include Clinical Governance, Partnering with Consumers, Preventing and Controlling Infections, Medication Safety, Comprehensive Care, Communicating for Safety, and Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration. 

From robust leadership and accountability to clear communication and infection control, these standards set the benchmark for what patients should expect when undergoing cosmetic procedures. The result is a safer, more transparent environment where patients can make informed choices and providers can demonstrate their commitment to best practice.

Assessment Pathways: Flexible and Streamlined

Accreditation to the Cosmetic Surgery Standards is available to all services where cosmetic surgery is performed, from small day clinics to large health organisations. There are two main assessment pathways:

1. Standalone Accreditation: Services can choose to be assessed solely against the Cosmetic Surgery Standards, ensuring they meet all requirements specific to cosmetic procedures.
2. Integrated Assessment: For organisations already accredited to the National Safety and Quality Health Service (NSQHS) Standards, ACHS offers a streamlined process to include the Cosmetic Surgery Module which are a small number of actions from the Cosmetic Surgery Standards. This integrated approach reduces duplication, minimises compliance burden, and allows services to demonstrate excellence across both general and cosmetic surgery standards.

Both pathways are designed to be thorough yet supportive, helping organisations navigate the complexities of accreditation with confidence.

Why Choose ACHS as your Accreditation Agency?

ACHS stands apart as Australia’s leading not-for-profit accreditation agency, with over 50 years of experience in health service accreditation. As an approved agency for the Cosmetic Surgery Standards, ACHS brings unparalleled expertise, credibility, and a collaborative approach to every assessment.

What Makes ACHS Unique?

• Expert Guidance: ACHS are industry leaders, offering tailored support from a dedicated customer service manager through the accreditation process.
• Continuous Improvement: ACHS doesn’t just assess; it partners with organisations to foster a culture of ongoing improvement, helping services stay ahead of regulatory changes and best practice.
• Trusted Reputation: ACHS is recognised for its integrity, transparency, and commitment to patient safety. Accreditation by ACHS signals to consumers, regulators, and funders that your service meets the highest standards.
• Supportive Process: ACHS understands the challenges of accreditation and provides resources, training, and advice every step of the way.

Take the Next Step

Choosing ACHS for your Cosmetic Surgery Standards accreditation is more than meeting a requirement—it’s a strategic decision to lead in safety, quality, and consumer trust. Join the growing number of providers who are setting the benchmark for excellence in cosmetic surgery.

Contact ACHS today to learn more about the assessment pathways and start your journey toward accreditation.