 |
|
|
The American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics (ABC) is the national certifying/accrediting body for the orthotic and prosthetic professions. ABC was created in 1948 to promote the welfare of the physically challenged by establishing standards for patients receiving orthotic or prosthetic care. ABC conducts examinations to evaluate the competency of those persons planning to enter the practice of orthotics and prosthetics.
ABC certification is recognized by federal and state agencies, among them the Veterans Administration, for the establishment of standards for orthotic and prosthetic practitioners and facilities. Other accrediting bodies, such as the Commission for the Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), mandate ABC certification for the provision of care in their facilities. ABCs certification process has been approved by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) since 1983. When an ABC-certified practitioner is consulted, patients, payers and managed care providers alike are assured that the patient is receiving care from a practitioner who has met ABCs rigorous requirements. ABC certification is the standard by which consumers can make an informed decision about both their provider and their orthotic and prosthetic care. For the practitioner or facility, an ABC credential is a privilege, not a right. The ABC board of directors maintains legal authority to award its certification credentials. ABC reserves the right to withhold, suspend or revoke a certification credential in accordance with established procedures. |
