Don't call a practitioner a "specialist" unless they hold specialist registration

The rule

Only registered practitioners may use protected titles. Even a title that's allowed can still mislead in advertising. This is our summary; the full wording is on Ahpra's page.

What Ahpra's page says, in short

• "Specialist", "specialises in", "specialty" and "specialised" suggest specialist registration, so they're likely to mislead when the practitioner doesn't hold it.
• Descriptive wording that doesn't suggest specialist registration, or overstate skill, is less likely to mislead.
• Qualifications can be described accurately and factually.
• "Surgeon" is restricted to certain medical practitioners with specialist registration. The page notes this depended on state legislation in some states, so check where you are.

What it means for your business

• Bios and new-practitioner announcements describe real qualifications and experience, without "specialist" unless it's true.

Used in

Cosmetics lesson 05.