ABC Model Practice Act

The practice of orthotics and prosthetics in the State of (State name) is an allied health profession with educational standards established by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), or its successor. The practice of pedorthics in the State of (State name) is an allied health profession with educational standards established by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE), or its successor. The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc., (ABC) is the national credentialing body for the orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic individuals and facilities in the profession. The increasing population of elderly and physically challenged individuals who need orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic services requires that the orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic professions be regulated to ensure the provision of safe, effective and appropriate patient care services.

The people of (State name) deserve the best care available and will benefit from the assurance of initial and ongoing professional competence of the orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic professionals practicing in this State. The practice of orthotics, prosthetics and pedorthics serves to improve and enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities and diseases by enabling them to resume productive lives following serious illness, injury, trauma or congenital anomalies. Unregulated provision of orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic care does not adequately meet the needs or serve the interests of the public.

In keeping with State requirements imposed on similar healthcare disciplines, licensure of the orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic professions will help ensure the health and safety of patients, as well as maximize their functional abilities and productivity levels. This Act shall be liberally construed to best carry out these subjects and purposes.