BOC Sunsets Orthotic, Prosthetic, Pedorthic Certifications

Accrediting and credentialing organization says move will not impact existing certificants.

• By David Kopf
• May 05, 2016

The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC)’s Board of Directors has approved a plan to stop accepting new applications for its orthotist (BOCO), prosthetist (BOCP), and pedorthist (BOCPD) certifications as of July 31.

A statement from BOC said the organization will continue to provide assistance to all BOC-certified professionals in meeting continuing education requirements, renewing their certifications, and ensuring BOC professionals deliver the highest level of quality patient care. 

The organization also said remained committed to representing the interests of the orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professions, including continuing membership and active participation in the O&P Alliance.

“BOC has been a recognized partner in these fields for more than 30 years and remains firmly committed to supporting our certificants and the millions of people who depend on BOC professionals to improve the quality of their lives,” said L. Bradley “Brad” Watson, BOCO, BOCP, LPO, chair of the BOC Board of Directors. “The Board’s decision will have no impact on current BOC certificants like me. All BOC certificants will have the organization’s support throughout their entire career.”

“As a leading provider of professional credentials for those providing prosthetic, orthotic, and pedorthic care, BOC has demonstrated for decades their commitment to the patients who depend on BOC certificants for high-quality care,” said Susan Stout, president and CEO of Amputee Coalition. “We applaud BOC for standing by their current certificants, ensuring patients continue to have access to care from the providers they depend upon for these essential services.  The BOC is making this transition with considerable integrity and commitment to the patients served by BOC certificants." 

The organization’s facility and pharmacy accreditation programs and certification programs for the orthotic fitter (COF), mastectomy fitter (CMF), and durable medical equipment specialists (CDME) are unaffected by the Board’s decision. Offering these credentials remains a long-term commitment of the organization.