Certified O and P Assistant 

The certified assistant supports the ABC certified practitioner by assisting in orthotic and prosthetic patient care. ABC's Certified Orthotic and/or Prosthetic Assistant Scope of Practice details the specific capacity the certified individual can practice. Under the guidance and supervision of the ABC certified practitioner, certified assistants may perform orthotic and prosthetic procedures and related tasks in the management of patients. The certified assistant also fabricates, repairs and maintains devices to provide maximum fit, function and cosmesis. ABC certified assistants may not use their credential as independent practitioners engaged in unsupervised patient care. The certified assistant is obligated to support and conform to professional responsibilities that promote and assure the overall welfare of the patient and the integrity of the profession.

The certified assistant program is currently on moratorium, and credentialing applications are not being accepted. Individuals maintaining the Certified Assistant credential will not be affected by the moratorium, and will continue to be required to maintain adherence to ABC's Code of Professional Responsibility, obtain continuing education, and remit annual renewal fees.