American Board for Certification
in Orthotics & Prosthetics (ABC)
Historical Perspectives
Before reading this information, please read our disclaimer.
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics, Inc. (ABC) was incorporated in August 1948 as the accreditation/certification body of the orthotic and prosthetic field. ABC came into being because many farsighted practitioners and orthopedic surgeons recognized the need to identify those individuals and firms capable of administering essential orthotic and prosthetic care to the physically challenged. The founding of ABC represented a voluntary joining together of persons dedicated to upgrading the profession of orthotics and prosthetics. ABC is designed to recognize individuals and facilities meeting accepted standards. In addition to its credentialing activities, the Board also seeks to advance the highest level of competency and ethics in the practice of the orthotic and prosthetic profession in the United States.
Seven members make up the Board of Directors of the American Board for Certification. Three directors each are nominated by the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association and the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. The seventh member is a public representative. Directors' terms are for four years.
CREDENTIALING PROGRAMS
ABC implements the major purposes of its charter through two types of credentialing activities:
Individuals. Practitioners whose education and experience correspond to existing requirements are admitted to an examination process designed to evaluate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing patient care by evaluating, designing, fabricating and fitting of devices. Those who successfully complete the examinations are issued certificates in the appropriate discipline. The certificant is required to maintain certification by remitting annual renewals, participating in mandatory continuing education and adhering to the Canons of Ethical Conduct.
Technicians whose education and experience correspond to existing requirements are admitted to an examination process designed to evaluate their knowledge of orthotic/prosthetic components and technical terms and also their ability to fabricate, adjust and repair a variety of orthotic/prosthetic devices. Those who successfully complete the examinations are issued certificates in the appropriate discipline which must be renewed annually in order to maintain good standing.
Facilities. As a consequence of thorough investigation and evaluation, facilities deemed to be capable of providing an acceptable level of orthotic/prosthetic care to patients are accredited by the American Board for Certification. Such facilities must have available the services of a full time certified practitioner in orthotics/prosthetics. They must also meet prescribed standards of safety and cleanliness.
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