What is the IDFPR Looking for in Medspa Inspections?

 Posted on February 27, 2025 in Professional License Defense

If you own or operate a medical spa in Illinois, an inspection by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) can be nerve-wracking. Whether it is a routine visit or the result of a complaint, inspectors will be looking for any violations that could lead to fines, disciplinary action, or even the suspension of your professional license. Understanding what they are looking for when they investigate medical spas and how to stay compliant is key to protecting your business, and our Illinois medical spa license defense lawyer can help.

What is the IDFPR and Who Conducts Medspa Inspections?

The IDFPR is the agency responsible for regulating professional licensing in Illinois. This includes doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers, as well as businesses like medical spas that offer cosmetic and wellness treatments. The agency ensures that licensed professionals follow the law and maintain ethical and safety standards.

IDFPR inspections are usually carried out by state investigators who specialize in medical licensing enforcement. In some cases, public health officials or even law enforcement may be involved, particularly if there are allegations of unlicensed activity or other serious legal concerns.

When Do Medical Spas Get Inspected?

Medical spas in Illinois may be inspected at any time, but inspections typically happen for a few common reasons. Routine compliance checks are sometimes conducted to ensure that facilities are following state regulations. Inspections may also be part of the license renewal process. If a client, employee, or competitor files a complaint against your medspa, the IDFPR will likely investigate. More serious cases, such as allegations of unlicensed procedures, improper prescriptions, or fraudulent activity, may also trigger criminal investigations, bringing even more scrutiny.

What Are Medical Spa Inspectors Looking for?

IDFPR inspectors look for a wide range of potential violations. These include, but are not limited to: 

Unlicensed Practices

One of the most common issues is an unlicensed practice. In Illinois, only licensed medical professionals can perform certain treatments, such as Botox injections, laser procedures, and dermal fillers. If a medspa allows unlicensed staff to perform these treatments, it could result in serious penalties.

Inadequate Supervision

Another red flag is inadequate supervision. Illinois law requires medical procedures at medspas to be overseen by a licensed physician. If inspectors find that procedures are performed without proper oversight, they may take action against the facility.

Record Keeping Noncompliance

Poor record-keeping is another major concern. Patient records must be complete, accurate, and properly stored. Missing consent forms, incomplete treatment records, or improper documentation can all lead to violations.

Health and Safety Violations

Health and safety issues are also closely examined. Inspectors will check for unsanitary conditions, improper sterilization of equipment, and failure to follow infection control protocols. Unsafe practices can lead to immediate penalties and even forced closure in severe cases.

Prescription Medicine Violations

Violations related to prescription medication are taken seriously. If a medspa is improperly prescribing, storing, or dispensing medications — especially controlled substances — it could face heavy fines and possibly even criminal charges.

False Advertising

Finally, inspectors look for misleading or false advertising. Medspas must be careful about how they market their services and credentials. Claims that misrepresent results, qualifications, or procedures can lead to IDFPR action.

How Can a Lawyer Help Medspa Owners and Practitioners?

If your medspa is facing an IDFPR inspection or investigation, having legal representation can make all the difference. A medical spa investigations defense lawyer can guide you through the process, represent you during hearings, and work to challenge any unfair allegations. If you do, in fact, have compliance issues, an attorney can help you address them before they turn into major legal problems. For those facing disciplinary action, a lawyer can fight to protect professional licenses and keep businesses operational.

Protect Your Medspa with Experienced Illinois Professional License Defense

An IDFPR investigation can put your business and career at risk. If you are facing an inspection or need help ensuring compliance, contact The Law Offices of Joseph J. Bogdan, Inc. at 630-310-1267 for a confidential consultation. Our Chicago, IL medical spa license defense lawyer can help you navigate the investigation process and defend your license, reputation, and livelihood.