The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) released the 2010 Practice Analysis of ABC Credentialed Orthotic Fitters. ABC’s Practice Analysis Task Force, ABC executive director, Catherine Carter, and director of clinical resources, Stephen B. Fletcher, CPO, LPO, worked with Professional Examination Services to create and implement a practice analysis of orthotic fitters.
ABC last conducted a practice analysis study of the orthotic fitter profession in 2004 and 2006. In 2010 the profession was resurveyed to identify changes in the profession related to the delivery of care, the specific orthotic devices used, and the technology in use today.
The strategy included a validation study to determine current trends in patient care, technology, and practice management in the provision of prefabricated orthotic services by ABC certified orthotic fitters.
“We wanted to get an idea of what current orthotic fitter practice looks like in order to meet the ever changing needs of the profession,” Fletcher stated in a press release. “We were very pleased with the positive responses we received from the professionals surveyed. The orthotic fitters who participated in the survey have provided a great service to their profession. Only those working within the profession can give us a comprehensive and contemporary look into their specific knowledge and skill sets.”
ABC will use the results of the practice analysis survey to assure that its orthotic fitter credentialing exams are continually relevant for individuals entering the profession. The results will also be used to identify specific topics for in-service and/or continuing education programs as well as provide guidance for education providers in regard to curriculum review and/or program self-assessment.
“As a result of the survey we’ll be able to provide the National Commission on Orthotics and Prosthetics Education (NCOPE) with pertinent information on what orthotic fitter students need to learn and what information to disseminate,” Carter stated.
