ABC Mastectomy Scope of Practice

The Board of Directors of the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics Inc., (ABC) developed this Mastectomy Scope of Practice document for use by post- mastectomy professionals, consumers, members of the rehabilitation team, health care decision makers and legislative and regulatory officials.

To write this consensus document, ABC used a variety of resources including:

• The previous ABC Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthic Scope of Practice
• The ABC Practice Analysis Studies for mastectomy fitters
• Curriculum from a sampling of orthotic, prosthetic, pedorthic and fitter educational programs

This Mastectomy Scope of Practice document defines several aspects of the post-mastectomy profession including the delineation of the scope of practice and the specific responsibilities of ABC credentialed mastectomy fitters. 

The practice of mastectomy fitting occurs in various settings, including independent private practices, hospitals, retail settings, rural outreach clinics and home health settings. ABC credentialed professionals play a critical role in the rehabilitation of individuals in need of post- mastectomy care.

Any scope of practice document should be revised periodically, and it is the intent of ABC to revise this document as the practice of post-mastectomy care evolves. 

This publication represents the shared efforts of many dedicated individuals. ABC is grateful for the commitment of the committee members and staff that devoted their time and effort to this project.

Larry Word, CPO                                                                                                                                                      President