Who Can Own a Medical Spa? The Corporate Practice of Medicine Doctrine
Executive Summary
The Corporate Practice of Medicine doctrine dictates who can legally own a medical aesthetic practice. Learn how legal ownership structures protect clinical autonomy.
Key Takeaways:
- ✓In states with strict CPOM doctrines (like Texas, California, and New York), only licensed physicians (or physician-owned PLLCs) can own the clinical entity.
- ✓Non-physicians can partner with medical practices via Management Services Organizations (MSOs) that handle administrative, marketing, and facility operations.
- ✓Clinical treatment decisions must always remain under the independent authority of licensed healthcare professionals, not corporate executives.
Why the CPOM Doctrine Exists
The Corporate Practice of Medicine doctrine was created to ensure medical decisions are driven by patient safety and clinical ethics rather than corporate commercial profit.
In aesthetic clinics, this means a non-physician business owner cannot dictate clinical dosing, patient treatment eligibility, or override medical safety decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a non-doctor open a medical spa?
Yes, by utilizing an MSO-PC (Management Services Organization) model where the non-doctor owns the management company and contracts with a physician-owned professional corporation for clinical delivery.
Editorial and Medical Disclaimer: Content on Medical Spa Providers is for informational, educational, and consumer-vetting purposes only and does not constitute formal medical diagnosis, treatment advice, or endorsement of specific practitioners. Always schedule an in-person consultation with a licensed healthcare provider before undergoing clinical aesthetic procedures.
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