Who Can Train With AAOPM?

Yes, Registered Nurses (RNs) can inject Botox in most states, but typically require physician supervision. The supervising physician must establish protocols, and the level of required oversight varies by state. Some states require the physician to be on-site, while others allow general supervision.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs) have broader authority and can often inject independently, especially in full practice authority states. In reduced or restricted practice states, NPs may need a collaborative agreement with a physician. AAOPM's Botox training course prepares both RNs and NPs for safe, effective injections.

Yes, AAOPM courses are designed exclusively for licensed healthcare professionals. You must hold an active, valid license as a Physician (MD/DO), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Physician Assistant (PA), Registered Nurse (RN), or Dentist (DDS/DMD). Some states also permit Naturopathic Doctors with appropriate licensure to attend training.

Your license must be in good standing without restrictions that would prevent you from performing the procedures taught in the course. We verify licensure as part of the enrollment process.

Yes, dentists are excellent candidates for facial aesthetics training. Their extensive education in facial anatomy, comfort with injections, and experience managing patients makes them natural fits for Botox and dermal filler procedures. Many dentists successfully incorporate facial aesthetics into their practices.

Most states allow dentists to perform facial aesthetics procedures, particularly in the lower third of the face where their expertise naturally extends. Botox for TMJ disorders and masseter treatment often falls clearly within dental scope. Check your state dental board for specific guidance on cosmetic procedures.

RNs typically require physician supervision to perform aesthetic injections. The supervising physician is responsible for evaluating patients, establishing treatment plans, and overseeing the RN's performance. The specific supervision requirements vary by state.

Some states require direct supervision (physician on-site), while others allow general supervision (physician available by phone/communication). RNs should review their state's Nurse Practice Act and any relevant medical board guidance. Many RNs successfully work in medical spas and aesthetic practices under proper supervision arrangements.

AAOPM training provides nationally recognized certification that is accepted across the United States. However, your ability to practice specific procedures depends on your state's medical board regulations and your professional license type.

Scope of practice varies significantly by state. Before beginning practice in a new state or with new procedures, verify requirements with your state licensing board. AAOPM education advisors can help you understand general requirements, but final determination rests with your state regulatory bodies.

Licensed estheticians cannot perform injectable procedures like Botox or dermal fillers, as these are medical procedures requiring a medical license. AAOPM courses are specifically designed for licensed medical professionals who have the legal authority to perform injections.

However, estheticians play valuable roles in medical spas and aesthetic practices. They can assist with patient preparation, perform non-injectable treatments (facials, peels, some laser treatments with proper certification), and support the overall patient experience. Understanding injectable procedures can help estheticians better support the medical team.

Most AAOPM foundational courses, such as Botox Training and Dermal Filler Training, require only a valid medical license. These courses are designed for beginners and provide comprehensive education from the ground up.

Some advanced courses have additional prerequisites. For example, PDO Thread Lift training requires documented experience with Botox and dermal fillers because thread procedures build upon injection skills. Advanced Pain Management courses may require completion of foundational pain management training. We recommend speaking with an AAOPM education advisor to determine the best training pathway for your experience level.

Interventional pain management procedures are typically performed by Physicians (MD/DO). Doctors from various specialties including anesthesiology, physical medicine and rehabilitation, neurology, and primary care can expand into pain management with appropriate training.

Advanced practice providers (NPs and PAs) may also perform certain pain management procedures in some states, typically with physician supervision and appropriate training. Hospital credentialing requirements often influence what procedures can be performed. Some facilities require fellowship training, while outpatient settings may accept CME-based training for certain procedures.

Physician Assistants can perform Botox injections but typically require a supervisory or collaborative agreement with a physician. The level of required supervision varies significantly by state. Recent legislation in some states has moved toward Optimal Team Practice, reducing supervision requirements.

PAs should review their state's PA Practice Act and any specific agreements with their supervising physician. The supervising physician's scope of practice also influences what procedures the PA can perform. Many PAs successfully build aesthetic practices within appropriate supervisory structures.

Malpractice insurance is not required to attend AAOPM training courses. During hands-on training, participants work under AAOPM's established protocols and supervision. However, we strongly recommend obtaining malpractice insurance that covers the procedures you plan to perform before beginning practice.

Many professional liability insurers offer policies specifically for aesthetic procedures or can add aesthetic coverage to existing policies. Coverage requirements and costs vary, so we recommend speaking with your insurer or shopping for appropriate coverage before opening your aesthetic practice.