Certified Prosthetist Orthotist

University of Virginia

About The Position

Certified Orthotist and Prosthetists are specifically educated and trained to manage comprehensive orthotic and prosthetic patient care. They assess patients, formulate and implement treatment plans, and conduct follow-up sessions with their devices and plans. Certified Orthotist and Prosthetists work independently and provide their services to patients without supervision.

Requirements

Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required. For practitioners certified prior to the bachelor’s degree requirement, a bachelor’s degree in any field is acceptable when paired with valid CPO certification, including certification obtained through a recognized Prosthetics and Orthotics certificate program completed under prior standards.
Experience: None
Licensure: ABC certification

Responsibilities

Assess the patient's functional status, including muscle development, gait, sensory function, range of motion, joint stability, and skin integrity.
Develop a plan that addresses the patient's needs and goals, including pain reduction, comfort, stability, mobility, as well as aesthetics.
Select the appropriate design, materials, and components for optimum strength, durability, and function.
Discuss the treatment plan, including benefits, risks, and time involved.
Prepare the patient for the device, with the use of splints or compression garments, as needed.
Take measurements, make impressions, and develop templates as needed to accurately fit the device.
Fabricate or assemble the device, and assess and properly align for maximum function and comfort.
Instruct and explain to patients how to use and maintain the devices.
Provide ongoing care, including evaluation and modification of the device for optimal fit and function.
You will be responsible for the oversight of techs, assistants and fitters you directly work with.
In addition to the above job responsibilities, other duties may be assigned.