Pedorthist Candidate Guide

Established in 1948 as a not-for profit organization, the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, commonly known as ABC, is a national certifying and accrediting body for the orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic professions. ABC has become the quality standard in orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic certification.

ABC certified individuals are considered leaders in the profession and provide the highest quality patient care, along with excellence in research and device design. ABC certified individuals must meet stringent educational standards, clinical training and a complete assessment of competency.

ABC conducts examinations to test the competency of those persons engaged in the practice of pedorthic services who voluntarily apply for the examination process.

Mission and Vision

ABC is the comprehensive credentialing organization whose mission is to establish and advocate for the highest patient care and organizational standards in the provision of safe and effective orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic services.

ABC fulfills this mission by:

• Measuring patient care provider’s knowledge and skills through rigorous credentialing programs
• Establishing standards of organizational performance through facility accreditation
• Mandating professional continuing education to maintain competency
• Administering a professional discipline program
• Communicating the value and importance of ABC credentials

ABC’s activities are guided by the following vision statement:

Setting Standards, Improving Outcomes, Changing Lives

Accreditation and Recognition

ABC certification is recognized by federal and state agencies, as well as third-party payers and is considered the standard among orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic professionals. ABC certified professionals are valuable members of the rehabilitation provider community.

Governance of ABC

The affairs of ABC are governed by the board of directors. Therefore, the board is responsible for the policies and procedures governing certification, and the board has the authority under its bylaws to modify the rules, regulations and policies, as it deems appropriate. The board is comprised of ABC credential holders and public representatives.