Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]
In the era of advanced healthcare, the spotlight on prosthetic and orthotic specialists has never been brighter.
As medical technology evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can design, fit, and maintain these life-changing devices continues to grow.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a prosthetic and orthotic specialist?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
- A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of prosthetics and orthotics,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable prosthetic and orthotic specialist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Duties and Responsibilities
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists design and create prosthetics and orthotics to replace or support the function of a part of the body that’s missing or impaired.
Their daily duties involve consultation, design, fabrication, and fitting of these devices.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists have the following duties and responsibilities:
- Evaluate patients’ physical attributes, such as the degree of limb loss or disability, muscle strength, and circulatory health
- Consult with physicians, physical therapists, or occupational therapists to gather information about patients and develop the best treatment plans
- Design and fabricate orthopedic and prosthetic devices based on physicians’ prescriptions and patients’ specific needs
- Adjust, repair, or replace prosthetic and orthotic devices
- Train patients to use prosthetic and orthotic devices, teaching them how to walk, climb stairs, or use a hand, for instance
- Educate patients about maintenance and use of prosthetics and orthotics
- Document patient care, write treatment plans and progress notes, and update patient records
- Keep up-to-date with new technology and materials to provide the best solutions for patients
- Manage inventory and order prosthetic and orthotic parts and supplies
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a committed Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist to help our patients restore their mobility and independence.
The Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist is responsible for patient assessments, formulating treatment plans, and designing, fitting, and adjusting prosthetic and orthotic devices.
Our ideal candidate has a profound understanding of biomechanics, anatomy, and related fields.
They should also be highly skilled at using various hand tools and fabrication equipment, and they should be able to work with patients of all ages and conditions.
Responsibilities
- Evaluate patients to determine their needs and to formulate a treatment plan
- Design, fit, and modify prosthetic and orthotic devices according to patient requirements
- Provide patients with training on how to use and maintain their devices
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure a holistic approach to patient care
- Maintain accurate and updated patient records
- Stay informed about advancements in prosthetic and orthotic technology
- Assist in the fabrication and repair of prosthetic and orthotic devices
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist
- A degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics from an accredited institution
- State licensure or certification in Prosthetics and Orthotics
- Strong understanding of biomechanics and human anatomy
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Ability to work with patients of all ages and conditions
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Continuing education and professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist
- Work Environment: Medical setting with regular patient interaction. Some travel may be required for conferences or training.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Rehabilitation Services Manager.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Do?
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists are medical professionals who are specialized in designing, fitting, and maintaining prosthetic and orthotic devices.
These devices include artificial limbs (prosthetics), braces, and other medical or surgical devices (orthotics).
They work closely with patients, doctors, and physical therapists to create a customized care plan that meets the patient’s specific needs.
This involves taking precise measurements and creating detailed specifications to ensure that the devices are comfortable and functional for the patient.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists may also provide training for patients on how to use and care for their devices.
They also conduct regular follow-ups with patients to adjust and repair devices, and to monitor the patient’s progress.
They play a crucial role in helping patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life, often after traumatic incidents such as accidents or illness.
This can involve creating prosthetics for lost limbs or orthotics to support weakened body parts.
Furthermore, they are involved in innovative research and development of new prosthetic and orthotic technologies to improve patient care.
This could include the incorporation of advanced materials, computer technology, or robotics into the design of prosthetic and orthotic devices.
Overall, the role of a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist is highly specialized and requires a combination of medical knowledge, technical skills, and a compassionate approach to patient care.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Qualifications and Skills
A proficient Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist should possess certain skills and qualifications to perform their role effectively, such as:
- Technical knowledge of prosthetics and orthotics to design, fit and maintain devices that help patients regain physical functionality.
- Strong hand-eye coordination and dexterity to handle tools and equipment and to create precise and detailed prosthetic and orthotic devices.
- Exceptional problem-solving skills to accurately diagnose and resolve issues related to the fitting and function of prosthetic and orthotic devices.
- Excellent communication skills to explain complex medical and technical information to patients, their families and other healthcare professionals.
- Interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with patients, helping them feel comfortable and supported during treatment.
- Physical stamina to stand for long periods and ability to lift and move patients, if necessary.
- An understanding of biomechanics, anatomy, and physiology to create effective and comfortable prosthetic and orthotic devices.
- High attention to detail to ensure the devices fit properly and function as intended.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Experience Requirements
For an entry-level position as a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist, candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, which is often gained through internships or part-time roles in a medical or rehabilitation environment.
A degree in Prosthetics and Orthotics is also a common requirement, providing theoretical and practical experience in the field.
This course typically includes clinical placements to give students hands-on experience.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have usually worked in a prosthetic and orthotic clinic or hospital, developing their technical skills and knowledge in creating and fitting prostheses and orthotic devices.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position.
In addition to the hands-on experience, Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists should also have strong problem-solving skills, technical skills, and the ability to communicate well with patients.
They should also be detail-oriented as they are tasked with designing and fitting devices that must meet each patient’s unique needs.
Continuous professional development is also crucial in this field, as technology and treatment methods continually evolve.
Hence, many employers look for specialists who are committed to learning and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and techniques.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Education and Training Requirements
To become a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist, an individual must first complete a bachelor’s degree, typically in a relevant field such as biology, kinesiology, or engineering.
Following this, they must enroll in a master’s degree program in Prosthetics and Orthotics.
This program often consists of comprehensive classroom instruction and clinical rotations to provide hands-on experience.
Upon completion of the master’s program, candidates are required to complete a one-year residency for each discipline (prosthetics and orthotics), under the supervision of experienced professionals in the field.
After finishing the residencies, individuals must pass a certification examination to become a Certified Prosthetist Orthotist (CPO).
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) and the Board for Orthotist/Prosthetist Certification (BOC) are two bodies that provide this certification in the United States.
In order to maintain their certification, Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists must complete ongoing continuing education and professional development courses throughout their career.
Some specialists may also choose to pursue additional specialty certifications to further specialize in specific areas such as pediatric orthotics or advanced prosthetics.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Salary Expectations
A Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist earns an average salary of $70,598 (USD) per year.
However, the actual earnings can vary depending on factors such as experience, level of education, location, and the employing institution.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist Job Description FAQs
What educational qualifications does a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist need?
A Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist typically needs a master’s degree in Orthotics and Prosthetics.
Some programs accept students with a bachelor’s degree in any field, but a background in biology, anatomy, physics, and health sciences could be beneficial.
Additionally, a successful completion of a one-year residency program after graduation is often required before becoming certified.
What are the daily tasks of a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist?
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists work closely with patients to understand their mobility needs.
They design, fabricate, fit, and adjust prosthetic and orthotic devices based on a physician’s prescription and patient’s specific requirements.
They also conduct regular follow-up appointments to assess the device’s effectiveness, comfort, and fit, and make adjustments as needed.
What skills are important for a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist?
Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialists require solid technical abilities and a good understanding of biomechanics.
They should be proficient in using tools and technology used in fabrication of devices.
Moreover, strong communication skills are vital to understand patients’ needs and explain complex medical procedures or device usage instructions.
They should also possess patience and empathy, as they often work with patients facing challenging physical conditions.
What makes a good Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist?
A good Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist is someone who is patient, caring, and has excellent problem-solving skills.
They must be detail-oriented to ensure that devices are made accurately according to the patients’ needs and preferences.
Additionally, staying updated with the latest technological advancements in the field is crucial for providing the best care to patients.
How challenging is it to hire a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist?
Hiring a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist can be somewhat challenging due to the specific educational requirements and the need for practical experience.
It’s crucial to look for candidates who are certified or eligible for certification by recognized boards, such as the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC).
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Today, we’ve shed light on what it really means to be a Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist.
And guess what?
It’s not just about fitting patients with medical devices.
It’s about crafting a future of mobility, one limb at a time.
With our handy Prosthetic and Orthotic Specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to make a move.
But why stop there?
Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.
Remember:
Every fitted device is a step towards a more mobile and independent life.
Let’s build that future. Together.
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