Practice Analysis of Certified Practitioners in the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics

On behalf of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC), I am pleased to present this Practice Analysis of Certified Practitioners in the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics.  This report describes the contemporary practice of ABC certified orthotists and prosthetists in the United States and represents the culmination of a year’s planning, execution, data analysis, and writing.

ABC regularly conducts a practice analysis study to update the profile of the profession and to adjust certification exam material as necessary, as well as providing information to members of the profession, researchers, regulators, and primary and continuing education programs.  Prior studies were published in 1991, 2000, 2007 and 2015.

Many dedicated professionals generously contributed their time and expertise. Over 1,000 individuals participated in different phases of the practice analysis study including the Practice Analysis Task Force members, survey pilot test participants, and survey respondents.

In particular, the Practice Analysis Task Force members contributed many hours of their time to define the tasks, knowledge and skills of the O&P practitioner, develop the survey, review the results, and finalize the resulting test specifications.

At Prometric, Charis Walikonis and Thomas Fiske, Senior Assessment Design Specialists, provided leadership and guidance throughout the practice analysis process.

At ABC, Catherine A. Carter, Executive Director, provided excellent insight and oversight throughout the practice analysis. Stephen Fletcher, CPO, Director of Professional Credentialing, contributed invaluable subject matter expertise during all phases of the project. And finally, Molly Maguire, Professional Credentialing Administrator, provided critical coordination in support of the project.

Brett Saunders, CPO, FAAOP
President