Certified Orthotist Bob Meier has been teaching orthotic fitters for over 25 years, allowing for the ability to reflect on the evolution of the profession. In that time he’s seen the role of the fitter evolve to a multi-faceted professional equally adept at the “how” and the “why”. Today’s Professional Fitter, said Bob, is one who not only knows how to fit a prescribed orthoses, but who can also teach and help the patient better adapt to and use the device.This comes, said Bob, from a specific educational background not only fitting but on the anatomical sciences related to orthotics. Bob Meier, director of education for CAMP Healthcare, started out working in sales and then research and development before focusing on education. He is a life-long student, holding a BS in business administration; as with all ABC credentialed individuals, Bob is always seeking futher education through participation in the various sciences and related practice areas.This often comes into play for both educators like Bob and the professional fitters taught at the CAMP seminars.
“When I do a better job of educating patients on how to function in the new environment we’ve provided them, I help them to optimize compliance in using the devices,” explained Bob. As products evolve, this patient education component becomes more critical and requires fitters to have a greater in-depth knowledge of the core sciences of the profession – anatomy, physiology and the movement sciences of kinetics, kinesiology and biomechanics – on which every orthotic or prosthetic decision is based. He recommends courses like those he teaches but urges fitters not to stop there. There are many options available. He’s excited about a new company, SOP Courses, [http://www.sopcourses.com] which is offering college level science courses taught by experienced instructors in weekend programs. Seek and demand education is the advice he passes along to all fitters. And not just on the technology, products and science of orthotics but on the facility managements issues too. It’s equally important to be knowledgeable in areas such as documentation; CMS, HIPAA & OSHA regulations; courtesy and ethics; communication skills with physician and allied health professionals; universal precautions; and professional and facility credentialing. For many fitters, CMS regulations are the driving force to obtain education and training. Based on what Bob has seen, that’s just the start. “The educational bar will never be lower,” he said. “And all of this is good for fitters.” Good because as fitters learn more and take on more professional responsibilities, the paths for advancement are greater. The profession and the industry are changing. He’s keeping sharp by investing in continuing education and by staying involved in many organizations.