Why you won't find testimonials on my site or social media

TL;DR:  I would lose my license as a registered health professional. 

Because it’s the law

To practice acupuncture or prescribe Chinese herbal medicine here in Australia, you must be registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).   It means being accepted by holding a minimum Bachelor level qualification and maintaining registration based on annual training hours and upholding specific standards and regulations. 

It keeps the profession safer and also allows private health funds to cover your acupuncture treatments. 

One of those many regulations, is the prohibition of testimonials in advertising.  AHPRA’s decision is based on 4 key points.  From their website: 

Seen google reviews?

The National Law does not stop consumers providing feedback or reviews in social or other media. Consumers and patients are free to share their views and experiences online and elsewhere, for example, by posting a review.  It’s not considered advertising, unless it is shared, or responded to on that platform.

Who else does this apply to?

Not all health professions are regulated and different laws apply outside of Australia. If you see a testimonial, they’re either not Australian based, or they’re practising a profession that does not require registration within Australia.

The following are registered health professions here in Australia;

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practice

• Chinese medicine

• chiropractic

• dental practice

• medicine

• medical radiation practice

• nursing and midwifery

• occupational therapy

• optometry

• osteopathy

• paramedicine

• pharmacy

• physiotherapy

• podiatry

• psychology

Want to know more?

There’s plenty more information on the AHPRA website.

Safety first kids.

Jenna