Orthotist and Prosthetist 

ABC conducted a Practice Analysis of Certified Practitioners in the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics which identified performance domains for both orthotists and prosthetists. Within each domain, several identified tasks provide the basis for questions in the examination.  The five domains of practice as well as specific tasks, knowledge and skill statements were identified and are used to construct the practitioner examinations.

The five domains of practice are:

• Patient Assessment

• Formulation of the Treatment Plan

• Implementation of the Treatment Plan

• Follow-up Treatment Plan

• Practice Management

Candidates are required to successfully pass three examinations that are designed to evaluate their knowledge and clinical aptitude in orthotic and prosthetic practice. The three examinations are independent of one another and may be taken in any sequence.

Written Multiple Choice Examination: a three hour, multiple choice examination that assesses the candidate's knowledge of patient and practice management. Knowledge assessed on the written examinations includes anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, kinesiology, disease process, pathologies, material science, ethics and professionalism.

Written Simulation Examination: a three hour interactive exam that uses seven simulated case scenarios to test the candidate's analytic and clinical problem solving skills. The cases will include topics such as prescription criteria, device recommendation, technical implementation and follow-up protocols.

The written and written simulation examinations are held via computer-based testing (CBT). Computer-based testing is a method of administering tests in which the responses are electronically recorded. Computer-based testing makes use of a computer instead of a pen and paper exam.

Clinical Patient Management Practical Examination: a hands-on practical examination of knowledge and skills assessed through direct examiner and patient model interaction in a clinical environment. The candidate must perform specific tasks while demonstrating and describing the orthotic or prosthetic recommendation, fitting criteria, patient instructions and follow-up plans involved in the provision of care.

All requirements must be satisfied prior to the application deadline. Individuals who have met the educational and residency requirements may submit an application for approval as a candidate for certification.

The process for applying:

1) For first time applicants, please fill out the application form for first-time applicants. For those candidates who need to retake an examination, please register for the exam using the exam retake registration form.

2) Enclose the required documentation with your completed application:

• Official baccalaureate or higher degree transcripts

• O&P Program Certificates: If applicable, official transcripts/certificate from orthotic and/or prosthetic certificate program

• Applicants with a foreign education should refer to the Practitioner Book of Rules for specific eligibility and documentation requirements

3) Register for the examination(s). Registration for at least one of the three examinations must be submitted with the application

4) Submit the application to: 
    ABC
    P.O. Box 34862
    Alexandria, VA 22334-0862

Please note overnight services such as UPS and FedEx do not deliver to P.O. Boxes.

Please refer to the Practitioner Book of Rules & Candidate Guide for additional information.

*The exams are generally offered in the spring, summer, fall and winter at 250 locations nationwide. For a list of testing location in your area, please click here. Available Testing Locations.

Practitioners who successfully complete the education, experience and examination requirements prescribed by ABC for practitioner certification are conferred the credentials of Certified Orthotist (CO), or Certified Prosthetist (CP).

The credential of Certified Orthotist/Prosthetist (CPO) is conferred upon practitioners whose responsibilities conform to both those of orthotist and prosthetist and who successfully fulfill all of the requirements in both disciplines.