The Seven Steps Include:

1. Prescription/Referral Form:

Certified Orthotists and Prosthetists require a prescription/referral from an authorized medical professional to provide treatments. A prosthetic referral is generated from an interdisciplinary team that has determined the patient is physically capable and mentally ready to begin prosthetic treatment.

2. Assessment and Patient Evaluation:

A thorough clinical assessment and patient evaluation is completed using standardized tests and analyses and by collecting patient-specific characteristics that will be used to determine the appropriate prosthetic/orthotic treatment.

3. Treatment Planning:

Analyze, evaluate and integrate information gathered in the Patient Assessment & Evaluation. Using this information a prosthetic/orthotic treatment is developed which may include the provision of a new prosthesis/orthosis, improvement of function in current device, or referral to other health care professionals.

4. Measure, Design & Fabrication:

Certified Orthotists and Prosthetists take 3D scans/casts of patients and have the skills and equipment within the clinic to design and manufacture custom made orthoses/prostheses. They can make adjustments and alterations in-house to ensure optimum fit and function.

5. Treatment Implementation and Evaluation:

Using relevant clinical and technical skills, the Certified Practitioner provides the patient with the prosthetic/orthotic treatment that may include the provision of a new prosthesis/orthosis, restoration/improvement of function in current prosthesis/orthosis, or referral to other health care professionals. Fit and function are assessed, and adjustments made in-house if necessary. Education is provided to the patient on use and care.

6. Ongoing Treatment and Re-evaluation:

Review prosthetic/orthotic treatment with patient subsequent to original care. Provide additional treatment to adjust, optimize or restore function of the prosthesis/orthosis, and re-educate patient as necessary. Refer to or consult with other health care professionals, as necessary.

7. Professional Practice:

Practice in accordance with professional standards and legal requirements; participate in personal and professional development through continuing education, training, research, and organizational affiliations; and provide training and education to others.