Educational qualifications required for American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics

Educational qualifications required for American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics

I want to make a career in the field of Prosthetics and Orthotics. What are the educational qualifications needed to secure American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics? Also tell me about the license that I would need to obtain and the procedure for the same.

To secure a stable career in Orthotics and prosthetics, you need to be a graduate from a recognized O&P program and complete a 1-year residency. You may then sit for the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics exam. Board certification is available in either or both fields and is required in order to practice as an orthotist or prosthetist. You can get the certification after a graduate’s degree but the National Commission on Orthotics and Prosthetic Education has suggested that all degree programs be at the master's degree level by 2012.

You cab avail the certification through the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) via an exam. Currently, 13 states oblige O&P practitioners to become licensed though requirements and courses for licensure differ between states. You can check the listing of state licensure requirements at the ABC's website.

Certificates and associate's degree programs are accessible for those interested in working as an orthotic, prosthetic or orthotic and prosthetic technician. The duration of these courses may vary depending on the field of study. These courses cover topics like orthotic and prosthetic apparatus and human anatomy. Orthotic programs also provide tutoring in upper and lower limb, clinical and spinal orthotics. Prosthetic programs offer tutoring in transtibial, transhumeral and transfemoral prosthetics.