Is a good-faith exam required before treatment in South Dakota, and can it be done by telehealth?

Required; in-person or telehealth permitted Conditional; telehealth GFE allowed in some circumstances — verify with board

South Dakota · Lenient

Good-Faith Exam Rules for Med Spas in South Dakota

The good-faith exam (GFE) is the legal gate before any injectable or device treatment. South Dakota's rules on who performs it — and whether it can happen over telehealth — directly affect how you schedule and staff.

By Evan at Inside MedSpa

Is a good-faith exam required

Required; in-person or telehealth permitted

Can the exam be done by telehealth

Conditional; telehealth GFE allowed in some circumstances — verify with board

Who can perform the exam vs. the injection

MD, DO, NP, PA, RN under minimal supervision

What to verify in South Dakota

Verify current Board of Nursing and Medical Board guidance on telehealth GFE and RN injection scope, as South Dakota's rules are permissive but evolving.

Primary source: South Dakota Medical Board and Board of Nursing

General business information for South Dakota medical-spa owners, current as of 2026 — not legal advice. State boards update rules often; confirm specifics with the South Dakota board (and your own counsel) before you act.

See the full South Dakota regulation profile →

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