How to Find a New Prosthetist
Wearing and adjusting to a prosthesis is a lifelong medical journey. At some point, you may need to find a new prosthetist because you’ve relocated, your current prosthetist has retired, or the relationship simply isn’t working. If that happens, here’s a rundown of what you can do to find a new prosthetist.
Once you've decided to find a new prosthetist, several resources can help with your search. The certification boards and professional associations below offer directories you can use to create an initial list.
The American Board for Certification (ABC) is the national certifying and accrediting body for the orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professions. Its website includes directories of certified individuals, accredited facilities, and Emeritus Individuals.
The BOC directory lets you search for certified professionals by name, credentials, certification number, or location. View your results on a map or in a list, and check each professional's certification status and expiration date. To find a prosthetist, be sure to select the BOCP (BOC-Certified Prosthetist) credential.
AOPA works through government relations to influence policy and raise awareness of the Prosthetics and Orthotics field. Search for prosthetic facilities that are AOPA members.
AAOP advances the standards of prosthetic care through education, research, advocacy, and collaboration. It's a good place to look for more credentialed prosthetists.
What to Look For in a Prosthetist
Choosing the right prosthetist and building a lasting relationship are essential to your rehabilitation and ongoing care. Consider the following factors that may affect your decision-making and help ensure you find the prosthetist who’s right for you:
- Credentials: Check their certifications to confirm they're still in good standing.
- Insurance Coverage: Before selecting a prosthetist, check whether their facility is in-network with your insurance plan. Ask about expected out-of-pocket costs, coverage for prosthetic components and follow-up appointments, and whether the facility handles prior authorization requests.
- Experience: Choose a specialist with sufficient experience, especially with the type of prosthesis you wear. Questions to ask include: How many years have you worked in the prosthetic field? Do you have any specialized experience? Are you certified by manufacturers to provide specific components, such as computer legs or vacuum suspension systems?
- Follow-up care: "Aftercare support" or follow-up care goes beyond their initial services. Look for a prosthetist who is not only an expert but also proactive in providing adequate follow-up.
- Patient-centered care: Look for a prosthetist who listens to your concerns, involves you in treatment decisions, and considers your mobility goals, daily activities, comfort, and lifestyle when recommending prosthetic solutions.
- Knowledge of support groups: Because this is a lifelong journey, having an amputee support group that understands what you're going through is vital. A good prosthetist has connections to or a network of support groups they can refer you to. Learn more about Amputee Support Groups.
The Difference between ABC and BOC Certification
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) and the Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) have both played important roles in establishing professional standards for prosthetic care in the US.
ABC certifies prosthetists who meet its education, clinical training, examination, and continuing education requirements. Patients can use the ABC directory to verify a practitioner's credentials and locate accredited facilities.
BOC previously offered certification for prosthetists, orthotists, and pedorthists. While BOC no longer accepts new applications for these certification programs, it continues to support professionals who already hold valid BOC credentials.
When choosing a prosthetist, verify that their certification is current and that they meet any applicable state licensing requirements. Also consider their experience with your type of amputation, their approach to patient care, and whether their facility accepts your insurance.
The bottom line
Ultimately, do your homework and carefully evaluate your options before choosing a new prosthetist. Consider their expertise and certification, as well as practical factors such as how close they are to your home and whether they offer follow-up services. The process may feel daunting, but the time and effort you invest in choosing the right prosthetist can help set you up for success in this chapter of your life.
