The American Board for Certification in O & P

1. The American Board forCertification in O & P Changes to the Research Project & The Impact to Residency Sites and the Resident

2. The ABC Application Process Complete Resident’s NCOPE File • Residents need to complete all of the NCOPE requirements prior to applying for the ABC practitioner exams. • Residency directors can help the process by encouraging residents to complete all of the paperwork especially the directed study, on time.

3. On Time … ABC is pleased to be offering a third exam cycle to the year for the written and written simulation exams.

4. …and Complete • The key to meeting these new deadlines is to make sure that all forms and documentation are complete and fees are received in a timely manner. • Late or incomplete forms may preclude someone from testing that cycle. • Applications are available on the ABC website at www.abcop.org or by calling the Credentialing Department at (703)836-7114, ext. 221, 228, 229.

5. Five Most Frequent Delays • NCOPE file is not complete • Transcripts that do not arrive • Applications that are not signed • Fees that are incorrect • Moving and not notifying ABC

6. As promised… • The practitioner written and written simulation exams have been converted to Computer – Based Testing; • The exams can be taken at more than 150 test sites nationwide.

7. Why CBT? • Allow the candidate greater access to testing locations • Candidates will save $ on travel • More convenient • Candidates will take less time off from work

8. Three Exams • There are 3 ABC practitioner certification exams: • Written Exam, 150 multiple choice items, designed to test general knowledge • Written Simulation Exam, 6 problems designed to test problem-solving skills • Clinical Patient Management Exam, 7 modules designed to test practical ability in a clinical environment

9. Preparing for the ABC Exams • ABC Practice Analysis • ABC Candidate Guide • Academy Exam Preparation Seminar • NCOPE Resident List-Serve • ABC Code of Professional Responsibility

10. Examination Content ABC practitioner exam content is based on the Practice Analysis of the Disciplines of Orthotics and Prosthetics. This study was updated in 2006. All exams are now based on the revised study.

11. Domains of Practice • Patient Assessment • Formulation of the Treatment Plan • Implementation of the Treatment Plan • Follow-up Treatment Plan • Practice Management • Promotion of Competency and Enhancement of Professional Practice

12. ABC Certification • Certification is based on passing all three exams. Candidates have a four year – four try eligibility period. • Once exams are passed: • Maintain MCE requirements during five year certification cycle • Abide by the Code of Professional Responsibility • Remit annual renewal fee

13. ABC Update Currently Credentialed/Accredited • Practitioners 5,126 • Technicians 600 • Assistants 134 • Fitters 3,242 • Pedorthists 2,306 • Facilities 1,756

14. News at ABC • ABC-BCP Integration is proceeding smoothly. • ABC has announced a new fitter credential, the Certified Fitter of Therapeutic Shoes. • UQ Pathways (10 year and 5 year extension of credential) are being phased out. The deadline for completed applications is December 31, 2008. • Individuals certified through ABC can now review their MCE statements on our website, www.abcop.org

15. Working Together for Residents Five staff members are dedicated to this process, two at NCOPE and three at ABC.

16. Thank You