Policy and Standard Operating Procedures

A PSOP stands for Policy and Standard Operating Procedure. It is a comprehensive document that outlines both the policies and the step-by-step procedures that a business or organization follows to ensure consistent operations, compliance with regulations, and high-quality service. 

• Regulatory Compliance: Promotes adherence to the guidelines and regulations set forth by Ontario’s Ministry of Health, the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO), the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO), and other relevant governing bodies.

• Health and Safety Standards: Provides a clear framework for infection control, patient safety, and sanitation protocols, in compliance with Ontario’s health and safety laws.

• Risk Management: Assists in managing risks and reducing the liability of the clinic by clearly outlining standards of practice, particularly regarding consent, documentation, and privacy (e.g., Personal Health Information Protection Act, PHIPA)

• Audits and Inspections: Provides readily available documentation and protocols that can be presented during inspections or audits by regulatory bodies and health units.

• PHIPA Compliance: Promotes compliance with the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), protecting patient data and privacy.

• Secure Handling of Patient Records: Outlines protocols for storing, accessing, and disposing of patient information to maintain confidentiality.

• Standardized Procedures: Promotes consistency in client care by outlining standard procedures for various treatments (e.g., dermal fillers, Botox, laser therapies), ensuring that each patient receives the same high standard of care.

• Efficiency: Streamlines clinic operations, making it easier for staff to know how to perform duties, handle emergencies, or document procedures, contributing to smoother clinic functioning.

• Onboarding and Training: Provides a clear reference for onboarding new staff, ensuring they are trained consistently and understand the operational flow of the clinic

By having a comprehensive PSOP manual,  medical aesthetics clinics can support legal compliance, operational efficiency, high-quality care, and protect both its patients and staff from unnecessary risks.

• Authorized Prescriber and Authorized Implementer: Defines the scope of practice for each role (e.g., physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, etc.) to ensure that only authorized individuals perform specific procedures, such as injections or laser treatments.

• Delegation Protocols: Outlines clear protocols for the delegation of medical acts from prescribers (e.g., physicians, nurse practitioners) to implementers (e.g., registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, medical aestheticians).

• Professional Boundaries: Ensures that roles and responsibilities are respected, preventing scope creep, miscommunication, or unqualified staff performing medical procedures.

• ​Informed Consent: Ensures that protocols are in place for obtaining and documenting informed consent, protecting both the patient and the clinic legally.

• Emergency Protocols: Outlines clear procedures in case of medical emergencies (e.g., allergic reactions, complications from treatments), ensuring staff are well-prepared to respond appropriately.

• Quality Assurance: Enhances patient satisfaction by creating a standard for quality care, reducing the risk of errors or inconsistencies.