Understanding Good Faith Exams in Aesthetic Practice

The short answer

A Good Faith Exam is a pre-treatment clinical assessment used to confirm whether an aesthetic treatment is appropriate for a patient. Whether it is required — and who may perform it — varies by state, provider credentials, and treatment type.

Key takeaways

• A Good Faith Exam is a clinical step, not a formality or a marketing checkpoint.
• Requirements differ by state and by the treatment being considered.
• It typically connects to delegation, supervision, and informed consent.
• Performing treatments without a required exam can create legal and safety risk.
• Confirm current requirements with official sources for your jurisdiction.

What a Good Faith Exam is

In aesthetic practice, a Good Faith Exam is an individualized clinical assessment performed before a treatment to evaluate whether the patient is an appropriate candidate. The exam may include history, skin or facial assessment, discussion of goals and contraindications, and a clinical decision about whether to proceed.

The exam is distinct from intake paperwork alone. It requires clinical judgment by a provider authorized to perform that assessment under the state's rules.

When it may be required

Some states require a Good Faith Exam before certain treatments — particularly those involving prescription products or delegated clinical acts. The responsible provider, the depth of the exam, and the documentation expected can vary.

Because requirements sit at the intersection of scope of practice, delegation, and supervision, the right process depends on:

• The treatment and whether it involves prescription products
• The credentials of the provider performing the treatment
• State delegation and supervision rules
• The practice's medical oversight structure

How it fits with delegation and oversight

When a treatment is delegated, the Good Faith Exam often forms part of what the delegating provider is responsible for approving, or what must be completed before delegation can occur. That relationship should be documented clearly — including who performed the exam, when, and the clinical basis for proceeding.

Documenting the exam

Documentation commonly includes the date, the provider who performed the exam, the assessment, the treatment decision, and any conditions or follow-up. Clear records support continuity of care and help demonstrate that oversight expectations were met.

Bottom line

A Good Faith Exam is a clinical safeguard tied to oversight and delegation. Treat it as a required step where applicable, document it consistently, and confirm the specifics for your state.