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Orthotists and Prosthetists have extensive training in anatomy and pathology (particularly relating to nerve, muscle and bone). They combine their training with a deep understanding of materials and manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and biomechanics. Our members assess and fabricate custom solutions for pain relief, healing, mobility, prevention of injury and deformity. Ultimately, OPC Certified Clinicians & Registered Technicians are focused on improving quality of life. 

Certified Clinicians and Registered Technicians often work as part of a team that includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nursing, physicians and medical specialists in orthopedics, physiatry and more.  

It takes 8 years to become a certified practitioner; including a two year residency. In addition to requiring continuing education to maintain OPC credentials, many members have further training with specialties within the field.

About OPC

Orthotics Prosthetics Canada (OPC) is the representative national organization for the orthotic and prosthetic profession.  Its role is to protect the public and advance the profession of orthotics and prosthetics through quality standards of practice, professional credentialing, education and awareness. The four priority pillars for OPC are:

History

OPC began operations in January 2015 as a result of an amalgamation of the Canadian Association for Prosthetics and Orthotics (CAPO), incorporated in 1954, and the Canadian Board for Certification of Prosthetists and Orthotists (CBCPO), incorporated in 1972. All CAPO and CBCPO registered trademarks are now owned by OPC. However, CBCPO remains the unincorporated certification body and is an independent Board responsible for implementing and managing the certification and registration processes.  Successful candidates are still considered CBCPO Certified/Registered through OPC. CBCPO will continue to exist as an arm’s length credentialing body to manage the certification and registration of clinicians and technicians and confer the designations of:

• Certified Orthotist CO(c);
• Certified Prosthetist CP(c);
• Certified Prosthetist and Orthotist CPO(c);
• Registered Technician Orthotics RTO(c);
• Registered Technician Prosthetics RTP(c); and,
• Registered Technician Prosthetics and Orthotics RTPO(c)
  

Vison, Mission & Values

OUR VISION

To lead the orthotic and prosthetic profession by fostering inclusion, innovation, and collaboration to transform lives through the provision of exceptional patient care.

OUR MISSION

Champion a commitment to excellence and a passion for helping individuals optimize mobility and independence by:

• Supporting a culture of inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility
  
• Developing and upholding national education and practice standards
  
• Advocating for our members and the people they serve
  
• Advancing technology and innovation
  
• Facilitating interprofessional collaboration
  
• Building awareness of and educating the public about our profession
  
• Promoting excellence in professional practice through research and evidence-based treatment

Version française: https://youtu.be/J1CoAWU6bkw