Certification and Professional Associations
American Board for Certification
Columbia Prosthetics and Orthotics is comprised of practitioners who are each certified by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics.
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc. (ABC) is the comprehensive credentialing organization for establishing individual and organizational performance standards for the provision of orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic care and services. The ABC advances the competency of providers, promotes the quality and effectiveness of orthotic, prosthetic and pedorthic care, and maintains the integrity of the profession.
Fabricating and fitting orthoses and prostheses requires a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and kinesiology. ABC credentials represent the standard of the profession.
American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA)
Columbia Prosthetics and Orthotics is a member of the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association.
The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) is a national trade association dedicated to quality patient care. AOPA represents more than 1,800 member companies whose practitioners custom make and fit prostheses (artificial limbs) and orthoses (orthopedic braces) for patients, or manufacture componentry for prostheses and orthoses.
Since their founding in 1917, they have worked diligently to become the voice for O&P businesses. Through government relations efforts, AOPA works to raise awareness of the profession and impact policies that effect the future of the O&P industry. Membership in AOPA represents a professional milestone; it is recognition of leadership and achievement in the O&P community.
The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (AAOP)
The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists was founded in November of 1970 to further the scientific and educational attainments of professional practitioners in the disciplines of orthotics and prosthetics. The Academy is dedicated to: (1) attainment of the highest standards of technical competence and ethical conduct by its members; (2) the professional recognition of qualified practitioners; (3) the assurances that practitioners who apply for or are admitted to membership maintain high standards of professional conduct; and (4) collaboration with other educational, research and related organizations in developing technical and ethical standards for the profession of orthotics and prosthetics. In order to comply with these objectives, membership in the Academy is restricted to individuals who have been certified in orthotics and/or prosthetics by the ABC, and who maintain their certification in good standing.