Orthotics Prosthetics Canada
Orthotics Prosthetics Canada (OPC) is the representative national organization for the prosthetic and orthotic profession. Its role is to protect the public and advance the profession of prosthetics and orthotics through quality standards of practice, professional credentialing, education and awareness.
Certified OrthotistCertified Orthotists CO(c) are uniquely trained professionals who provide comprehensive patient care for individuals in need of orthotic treatment. Certified Orthotists CO(c) evaluate and design solutions for patients requiring an orthosis due to muscle/bone impairment, disease or deformity. The primary goal of the CO(c) is to restore mobility and to prevent or limit disability. Prescribed orthoses can provide support to those with a wide range of neuromuscular disabilities and limit the effects of challenges resulting from birth complications such as cerebral palsy and spina bifida. Examples of orthoses include knee braces, ankle foot orthoses, upper extremity braces and spinal and neck braces. Certified Orthotists CO(c) look much deeper than the single injury or chronic ailment. They consider the underlying medical cause and resulting effects of the problem, as well as the overall health and lifestyle of the patient to help define the requirements of the orthotic treatment. |
Certified ProsthetistCertified Prosthetists CP(c) are highly trained healthcare professionals, experienced in the design and manufacture of artificial body parts. They work closely with a team of medical professionals that may include your physician, surgeon and physical and occupational therapist to ensure the best results for each individual. |
Registered TechniciansRegistered Technicians (RT) provide technical expertise in the design and fabrication of orthoses or prostheses and their components in such a manner as to provide maximum fit, function, cosmesis and workmanship. A Registered Technicians focus is on the tools, materials and technical skills necessary to build orthoses (braces and splints) and prostheses (artificial limbs). Their training includes kinesiology, biomechanics and rehabilitation to give an understanding of the body’s movements. Knowledge on many different types of orthotic and prosthetic devices, combined with their human movement training, allows Registered Technicians to provide exceptional reparation service as well. |
Ethically Bound
Orthotics Prosthetics Canada has a strict ethical code of conduct that all certified and registered professionals must adhere to. Breaches of this code can result in severe penalties, up to and including the loss of certification. Importantly, the profession’s code of conduct prohibits the certified professionals from recommending and dispensing devices for a patient that are extraneous or would endanger the patient’s safety and security:
‘The members [of the profession] must discharge their responsibilities in a fashion that will bring honour and integrity to that profession, thereby ensuring public confidence. The greatest effort possible should be made to satisfy each patient’s orthotic and/or prosthetic needs.’
Whether your orthotic or prosthetic requirements are the result of injury, disease or congenital problems, OPC certified professionals are the professionals most prepared to determine the clinical needs and design the appropriate orthotic or prosthetic treatment.
For further information, please visit www.opcanada.ca
Please click on the image below to learn more about "The Patient Care Process"
