US Professional Prosthetist-Orthotist Pathway:
In the United States (US), the pathway for individuals to enter and practice as Prosthetist-Orthotist is based on the coordination and collaboration of the American Board for certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC) and the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). These fundamental elements create a structure that not only provides utility in defining the US education and certification pathway, but also a framework that aligns with the ISPO education standards.
The fundamental elements/phases of prosthetist-orthotist education and training include:
Academic Education – Masters in O&P (under the NCOPE organization in collaboration with the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP))
- Teaching of theoretical subjects
- Closely supervised practical instruction
Residency Education/Training (under the NCOPE organization)
- Structured and controlled clinical experience at patient care locations
Certification/Licensure Examinations (under the ABC organization)
- Minimum competence examinations
Each element/phase is required in the US professional prosthetist-orthotist pathway for individuals to enter the profession.
