Practice Analysis of ABC Certified Orthotic Fitters

The specific objectives of the study were to:

• Conduct a practice analysis of ABC credentialed orthotic fitters to update the delineation of practice of orthotic fitters, including the domains of practice, tasks performed, and knowledge and skills utilized.

• Develop profiles of practice of certified orthotic fitters, including time spent in each domain and the criticality of domains.

• Quantify time spent in practice areas.

• Identify the functions performed with regard to various orthotic devices.

• Quantify patient populations served in reference to patient age and presenting condition.

• Develop defensible test specifications for the discipline of orthotic fitting in connection with

  the multiple-choice certification exam for orthotic fitters.

Update of Delineation

Subject-matter experts were identified by ABC who then reviewed and refined the existing delineation of practice to ensure the domains, tasks, knowledge and skills, practice areas, and the listing of orthotic devices was comprehensive and contemporary.

Review

An appointed task force performed a critical review of the elements of the delineation. They made suggestions to further refine and update the draft delineation, suggesting additional tasks, knowledge, and orthotic devices. The task force then edited the document to ensure clarity and completeness.