Wondering Why We Don't Share Patient Results? Here's Why
18 June 2024
At Plastic Surgery Partners, we are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethical medical practice. One aspect of this commitment involves our current policy on not sharing before-and-after photos or surgery videos. This decision is guided by strict legal and ethical considerations set forth by the Turkish Medical Association and national regulations.
Legal and Ethical Framework
The primary role of medical associations, as mandated by law, is to safeguard good and ethical medical practices. As professionals, we are obligated to act in accordance with these principles, prioritizing patient welfare over commercial interests. Various laws, regulations, and bylaws in Turkey ensure the protection of these values, imposing legal restrictions and penalties for non-compliance.
On July 29, the Ministry of Health implemented the "Regulation on Promotion and Informative Activities in Health Services," published in the Official Gazette. This regulation imposes stringent sanctions on covert or overt advertising by physicians and healthcare institutions. Under these rules, any promotional activities that go beyond public information on websites, social media, or radio-TV programs are subject to administrative fines or closure penalties.
In essence, the regulation prohibits healthcare providers from advertising in Turkish and targeting the Turkish demographic, aiming to prevent the commercial exploitation of patients through incentivized and irresponsible advertising practices. While this restricts even those physicians who practice ethically, it is a necessary measure to protect public health.
Why Plastic Surgery Partners Does Not Share Patient Photos
Due to these regulations, Plastic Surgery Partners does not currently share patient images. However, there is an exception for advertising directed exclusively at international patients and in the language of the target country. To engage in such activities, a clinic must obtain the International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate from the Ministry of Health.
Our clinic has applied for this certification. Once granted, and with full compliance with legal requirements, we plan to share images, with patient consent, under the Personal Data Protection Law (KVKK) and only with international patients.
Patient Safety and Informed Decisions
It's crucial to remember that all surgical procedures, including aesthetic surgeries, carry inherent risks. Decisions to undergo such operations should always be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals. At Plastic Surgery Partner, we prioritize patient safety and informed consent, ensuring that every decision is made with a thorough understanding of the potential outcomes and risks.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we navigate these legal and ethical guidelines to provide the best care while adhering to the regulations that protect patient welfare.
For further inquiries or to learn more about our services, feel free to contact us. We are committed to transparency and the highest standards of patient care.