One of the ancillary professions connected with orthopedics is that of an orthotist. An orthotist is tasked with the job of creating orthopedic equipment such as braces, also referred to as “orthoses.”
The design and construction of orthoses are done per prescribed instructions provided by an orthopedic doctor. They support and heal injuries or abnormalities such as fractures, muscle or tissue damage, or congenital disabilities such as those caused by polio or genetic defects.
Orthotics is classified as a medical profession along with prosthetics (false limbs or appendages) under “rehabilitative and therapeutic” professions. In the past, becoming an orthotist did not require formal education and was open to anyone who could demonstrate the required experience or capabilities. However, as the medical profession becomes more detailed and specialty-driven, there are now clear education, training and licensure requirements if you want to be an orthotist. You can begin your orthotics training by signing up for classes with a great online school.
Here are some tips to help you learn more about what’s needed to enter this medical career.
Education and Training
The basic qualifications to become an orthotist include a two-year associate or four-year bachelor degree with a science background. While in high school, concentrate on science subjects such as anatomy, chemistry, biology and physics. You should also focus on math subjects and practical subjects such as machining.
After high school enroll in a four-year BSc degree program in Prosthetics and Orthotics, or an acceptable Associate degree in relevant fields. A four-year degree is preferable if you can manage it. Ensure that any degree program you attend is properly accredited and recognized by the appropriate state and federal education authorities.
Next, based on the rules and regulations of the state where you will be based, you may be required to complete a one-year orthotics residency program from a recognized medical facility.
Certification and Licensure
National-level certification in orthotics is provided by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics (ABC); this not only includes certification for individual practitioners, but also recertification and accreditation for individuals and institutions alike.
The requirements to become a Certified Orthotist are listed below:
- Education: You can complete either of the following: (a) bachelor or higher degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics from an accredited institution; or (b) get a degree in any major followed by a PG certificate in O&P.
- Residency: One-year supervised residency program approved by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE).
- Examinations for Certification: Every candidate who has completed the above two requirements is required to complete a set of three examinations within three years of being deemed “eligible” for completing certification. Four attempts per exam are allowed during this period. The exams are as follows: (a) three-hour multiple-choice exam; (b) three-hour examination consisting of six simulations and scenarios; and (c) a practical examination to assess the candidate’s clinical and patient management skills.
- Subjects Covered: The certificate exams listed above cover the following areas of knowledge and expertise: (a) assessment of patient(s); (b) preparation of treatment plans; (c) implementation; (d) follow-up care; and (e) clinical practice. Subjects covered in the multiple-choice exam include physiology, anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics, pathologies and mechanics of disease, etc. The simulation exam covering six scenarios includes formulating prescriptions, deciding on the best type of orthotic devices, design and creation among other things. The practical examination involves following a set of instructions provided by the examiner.
At the end of this process, successful candidates are credentialed as Certified Orthotists (CO). CO’s are required to undertake Mandatory Continuing Education (MCE) requirements every five years. Follow the information and guidelines listed above to become an orthotist.