How to Become a Prosthetist
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Prosthetist
What does a Prosthetist do?
The Prosthetist examines patient and prepares cast or model to assist with the construction of the appliance and selection of required materials/components. Designs and fits artificial limbs, braces and appliances for patients with physical disability based on physician's specifications. Being a Prosthetist if the position is a specialist in crafting and fitting artificial limbs, title is a Prosthetist. Fits finished appliance to patient and makes any adjustments to ensure comfort and maximum functionality. In addition, Prosthetist if the position is a specialist in crafting and fitting orthopedic braces, title is an Orthotist. Generally, ?completion of a National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE) residency (12-18 months) is required in addition to certification. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Requires certification by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics. Prosthetist's years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement.
Prosthetists must take very accurate, very detailed measurements and impressions.
The prosthetist builds and assembles each prosthetic, then works with the patient to make needed adjustments.
The prosthetist must provide detailed instructions on operating the prosthesis, then the patient and prosthetist work together to create a care plan.
Patients must continue to meet with the prosthetist for an ongoing period of time while they learn to use the prosthesis and work with the prosthetist to make adjustments and modifications as their gait improves or their muscles become stronger and movements change.
This enables increased control and movement and as technology advances, so does the prosthetist's ability to give a patient the best range of motion and mobility possible.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Prosthetist
Best tips for those who want to become a Prosthetist
Here are some tips to become a Prosthetist.
Sit down and talk with your retiring prosthetist.
Secure your prosthetic medical records.
The following documents must be submitted.
The appointment is subject to a positive outcome to the following checks-(security clearance, credit records,qualification,citizenship and previous experience verifications).
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Prosthetist
Best colleges and universities for Prosthetist
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Prosthetist
Is being a Prosthetist Worth it?
On a weekly to monthly basis, Orthotists and Prosthetists Show and explain orthopedic and prosthetic appliances to healthcare workers.
In a typical work week as An Orthotist and Prosthetist, you can expect to work More than 40 hours per week.
You're among the many who get along well with their current prosthetist, whether they have been with you since the beginning of your journey as an amputee or they are relatively new.
Once your prosthetist leaves your healthcare network, your health insurance will no longer cover your visits to your prosthetist either in full or partial, depending on your coverage.
If you are covered by an employer’s or spouse’s health plan, you might find that it isn’t easy to switch to another health network that includes your prosthetist.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Prosthetist
What skills do you need to be a Prosthetist?
In order to succeed at this level, when working with both management positions and positions more junior, a variety of skills are required. A strong grasp of the following skills is needed to perform this role: Patient and Care Giver Education, Patient Assessment, Precision Measurement, Prosthetic Fitting, Prosthetic Design/Fabrication, Medical Specialty: Prosthetics. You would need to be proficient in the following: Electronic health records (EHR) Software. Although there may be many skills for success in this role, some companies may be willing to provide on the job training if you excel in other areas.
Orthotists and prosthetists must be able to communicate effectively with the technicians who often fabricate the medical devices.
Orthotists and prosthetists must be precise when recording measurements to ensure that devices are fabricated and fit properly.
Orthotists and prosthetists must be good at working with their hands.
Orthotists and prosthetists must have excellent communication skills.
Orthotists and prosthetists who work in their own offices must be effective leaders.
Step 6: View average salary for Prosthetist
How much does a Prosthetist make?
The average salary range for a Prosthetist is from $73,190 to $103,590. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
-
View average salary for the United States
-
Adjust salary by state
Average salary for Prosthetist jobs
Step 7: Find relevant Prosthetist jobs, and apply.
Looking for Prosthetist jobs?
Here are some Prosthetist jobs in the United States.