The Graduate Certificate Of Cosmetic Medicine (GCCM) was launched on 1 July 2023. Dr David Kosenko, President of the Cosmetic Physicians College of Australasia (CPCA), shares more about this new course.
The Graduate Certificate of Cosmetic Medicine (GCCM) is the first nationally accredited course in cometic medicine in Australia open to the wider medical profession (TAC 52900WA) and is run by Niche Education Group, a registered training provider.
The course has been written collaboratively by some of Australia’s best known and respected cosmetic doctors specifically to train local medical practitioners wanting to start a career in aesthetics or upskill. The CPCA felt that it was vital to create a comprehensive training program that focuses on local practices and laws, which may be missing from an overseas run course. Further, many other courses currently offered may act more as an introduction into one area of cosmetic medicine and do not amount to comprehensive training.
To be able to practise safely and with a comprehensive knowledge of cosmetic medicine, a more thorough training program is required.
The GCCM is made up of five units
- GCMPCM01 – Analyse the principles of cosmetic medicine
- GCMRPA01 – Review patient consultation and assessment strategies
- GCMAPD01 – Apply principles of dermatology to cosmetic medicine
- GCMPAI01 – Prepare for and administer cosmetic injectable medications
- HLTINF005 – Maintain infection prevention for skin penetration treatments
It is expected that learners will take no longer than 12 months to complete the course and it will be delivered via a mix of online theory and practical workshops.
The course provides doctors with the knowledge and skills to successfully fulfil the role of a cosmetic doctor whilst demonstrating best practice standards and meeting the requirements as stipulated by Ahpra regarding appropriate training.
The course content focuses on delivery and promotion of cosmetic services, scope of practice, communication, patient assessment, relevant dermatology, and facial anatomy leading to a solid knowledge regarding cosmetic injectables. Undertaking the GCCM will also satisfy special interest CPD requirements for the year.
Upon successful completion of the GCCM, the trainee with be micro credentialed with a Digital Badge which they will be able to use on their social media and marketing. Completion of the GCCM is also a pre-requisite for attaining Fellowship with the CPCA.
The GCCM has been in development for more than four years and, not surprisingly, there has been a lot of interest from doctors wanting to commence training. Happily, I can report that the first intake of doctors has already commenced the course.
If you are looking to start a career in cosmetic medicine, are simply looking to upskill or want to attain Fellowship of the CPCA, head to the CPCA website and consider enrolling. AMP
For more information visit: cpca.net.au/graduate-certificate-in-cosmetic-medicine/
