It is a long road

Building fit for purpose online instructional design takes a lot of time; it requires subject matter experts, editors, medical illustrators and instructional design developers. First, we build training manuals; then, the same manuals are handed over to the instructional design developer to produce an online learning format. Sounds easy! In reality, creating a single online module suiting aesthetic medicine represents hundreds of hours of work.

Not to be deterred, we started to put together our creative team to produce in-house learning materials. We aim to provide a consistent theory experience while providing flexibility so practitioners can fit in the theory component with their hectic schedules. In 2022, we have several online modules to support the courses we provide, the road is long but we are getting there.

Education fitting aesthetic medicine

Practical skills training is always the centrepiece of any tactile skill. However, many procedures are highly complicated when dealing with the human body. While our delegates are medical professionals, what you learn at medical school is often far removed from what is required for medical aesthetics. Vascular networks, nerves, understanding the ageing process and how that impacts everything from the loss of facial volume to stimulating fibroblasts is central to aesthetic medicine and becoming a leading practitioner.

We also decided to follow the lead of the HEE (UK) as they developed a guideline for the minimum level of education that should be delivered for the practice of aesthetic medicine. We go beyond their minimum requirements to provide a genuinely rounded educational experience for tomorrows industry leaders.

Why do we view this as a needed change in the sector

We consume a great deal of training; our practitioners are always going somewhere to learn a new brand, a new technique as you would expect you have to stay abreast of the latest developments in the aesthetic medicine industry.

We wish we could say we are often impressed by the training, but the unfortunate reality is so often, we are not. We understand how difficult it is to provide robust training; there are many moving parts, including the constant need for bodies to facilitate the training. Some of these pain points, like the requirement of models, will always be problematic.

However, it is the responsibility of the provider to overcome these pain points and do the best they can to facilitate robust training to their delegates. We viewed the lack of in-depth theory as a pain point that could be addressed, it is something that can be ‘fixed’, and once you have managed it, you can continue to make it better. Providing online theory offers delegates flexibility; we understand that many practitioners are time-poor. Facilitating online learning provides an in-depth framework while providing maximum flexibility for the learner.

Robust theory means better practical training

That all makes sense now! – When you fully understand the theory behind a procedure the practical training is far more valuable. It also means that practitioners ask fewer questions that are theory-based, in turn, questions asked during practical skills training tend to be more technique focussed. This means the delegate gains even more from the training sessions. They enter the practical training component with the theory of the ‘why’ then the ‘do’ makes complete sense. Patients love when experience flows like a fountain, that is all so much easier when a practitioner really understands why a procedure works, is the right procedure, and can provide to the patient what they should have X over W. A level of competence made so much easier to attain when the training had in-depth theory and practical skills training.

Let’s get virtual

Throughout 2022/23, we are putting the spotlight on virtual. Through video and webinar technology, we are working towards more value for our delegates. Log into our induction days, perfect for busy practitioners or those wanting to have a look behind the door before enrolling. We are also working on a new video-led training resource, live training events, and an aesthetics virtual training channel. While we maintain nothing can compare to in-clinic training, we view the virtual sphere as the perfect resource to aid international delegates and those wanting to refresh techniques.