Practice Analysis of ABC Certified Assistants in the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics

On behalf of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc. (ABC), I am pleased to present the Practice Analysis of ABC Certified Assistants in the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics. This report describes the contemporary practice of ABC Certified Orthotic and/or Prosthetic Assistants practicing in the United States, and presents recommendations regarding ABC examination construction initiatives. It represents the culmination of eleven months of planning, execution, data analyses and writing.

A project of this scale depends on the hard work and commitment of many professionals, and I am pleased to acknowledge their contributions to the final product. ABC is indebted to the 11-member Practice Analysis Task Force (PATF) for the direction it provided. Its members— Michael J. Allen, CPO, FAAOP, William D. Beiswenger, CPO, FAAOP, Curt A. Bertram, CO, FAAOP, Jonathan D. Day, CPO, Dennis W. Dillard, C.Ped., CTO, Stephen B. Fletcher, CPO, Bernard D. Hewey, CPO, M. Edward Hicks, CO, C.Ped., Robert S. Lin, CPO, FAAOP, Robert M. Tardell, CFo, CFts—worked with us diligently throughout the conduct of the study. Steven R. Whiteside, CO, FAAOP served as chair of the task force and devoted many hours to its success.

This project represents a substantial investment of ABC’s financial resources and personnel and supports ABC’s efforts in continuing to develop exemplary examination programs as well as providing information to primary and continuing education programs. I am grateful to Catherine A. Carter, Executive Director, for her support and guidance during this project. She provided thoughtful and consistent support for the study and developed a highly effective communication program in support of the study.

Donald D. Virostek, CPO                                                                                                                                            President