NEW ORLEANS — Despite financial concerns, the O&P profession is gaining strength and is in need of more dedicated professionals, according to a presenter here at the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium.
“Our practice may be slightly different [due to RAC audits and other challenges], but the service of highly educated and devoted individuals will always be needed,” Peter D. Rosenstein, executive director of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP) said during the opening ceremony. “As the population ages, it will need more care from prosthetists and orthotists, not less.”
Recipients of this year’s awards were also honored during the ceremony.
Peter D. Rosenstein
Cameron Clapp, a bilateral amputee who lost both legs and right arm in a train accident, received the Mohamed Amin Award for Humanitarian Service. This award is given to those who show exceptional dedication to volunteering and serving in the amputee community.
Donald E. Katz, MHA, CO/L, FAAOP, received the Titus-Ferguson award; Kevin Carroll, MS, CP, FAAOP, received the Distinguished Practitioner award; Scott Cummings, PT, CPO, FAAOP, received the Clinical Commitment award and Jason Kahle, MSMS, CPO, FAAOP, received the Clinical Creativity award.
Recipients also included Robert Gailey, PhD, PT, who received the Research award, Mark Muller, MS, CPO, FAAOP, and Gerald Stark, MSEM, CPO/L, FAAOP, who both received Outstanding Educator awards.
Phil M. Stevens
The ceremony ended with Rosenstein and Phil M. Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP, current AAOP president, predicting a bright future for the industry and highlighting the difference O&P brings to the amputee community.
“Our profession is strong and getting even stronger,” Rosenstein said. “What we do every day is make lives better. We make a difference that is recognized by the world. Not everybody can say that.” – by Shawn M. Carter
Reference:
Rosenstein P. Opening Session. Presented at: American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting and Scientific Symposium; Feb. 18-21, 2015; New Orleans.
Disclosure: Rosenstein reports no relevant financial disclosures.
