CHICAGO — Michelle J. Hall, FAAOP, president of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP), gave the opening statement at the AAOP Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium, here.
She emphasized the importance of becoming involved in the fight for O&P resources, as both private and government payers impose rules and regulations that affect patient care.
“We are at a pivotal moment in our profession,” she said. “It is no longer enough for us to only treat patients, we now have to fight to ensure that we have the tools and resources necessary to provide the best possible patient care. Our patients and the future of our profession depend on us.”
She also announced the introduction of the “Fellow with Distinction,” a new award that will be offered at future conferences, honoring those who have exemplified continued leadership, publication and teaching within the O&P profession.
During the conference, recipients of this year’s awards were also honored. Carl Caspers, CPO received the Titus-Ferguson Award, Philip M Stevens, MED, CPO, FAAOP, received the Carlton Fillauer Award and Arturo Vazquez Vela, CPO, CPO(M), CFO, FAAOP, who passed away last year, received the Distinguished Practitioner Award.
Award recipients also included Jonathan Naft, CPO, LPO, who received the Clinical Creativity Award, JoAnne Kansas, DPT, CPO, who received the Clinical Commitment Award, Kenton R. Kaufman, PhD, PE, who received the Research Award and Chris Robinson, MS, MBA, CPO, ATC, FAAOP, who received the Outstanding Educator Award.
Hall ended the ceremony by ensuring that the Academy will continue to advocate for its patients. “We are all ultimately focused on improving the lives of our patients, she said. “We intend to continue fighting for our rights and those of our patients.”
For more information:
Hall M. Opening Session & Academy Presentations. Presented at: American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting. Feb. 26-March 1, 2014. Chicago.
Disclosure: Hall has no relevant financial disclosures.
