In this episode, guest host Anna Cook, a board-eligible prosthetist orthotist at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, sits down with Chris Robinson, MS, MBA, CPO, ATC, FAAOP(D), clinical resource director for the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education (NCOPE). Together, they explore the newly introduced competency-based residency standards and what they mean for the future of O&P education. Robinson outlines the structure of the new model, its alignment with modern clinical practice, and the flexible implementation timeline. Key updates include the integration of orthotic and prosthetic disciplines, a stronger focus on professional competencies such as communication and clinical decision-making, and pathways for early adoption. The episode also highlights benefits for research track residents and reduced post-certification requirements for mentors and residency directors.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Molly Winget, CO and prosthetic resident at Boston O&P, talks with Chelsey Anderson, Pediatrics Research Fellow at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, about the critical role of shared decision making in prosthetic and orthotic care. They explore the difference between simply offering choices and genuinely involving patients and families in the care process. The conversation also highlights the value of evidence-based practice and offers practical tips for new clinicians to incorporate shared decision making, even when facing time pressures or limited experience.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Caitlin Peters, CPO, a board-certified prosthetist and orthotic resident at Shriners Hospital for Children in Greenville, SC, sits down with Shree Thaker, Director of Communications and Partnerships at the Amputee Coalition. Together, they explore the Coalition’s powerful evolution—from a grassroots peer support group to a national organization offering robust resources like virtual support groups, youth camps, educational materials, and advocacy initiatives such as So Everybody Can Move. Shree shares how the organization empowers individuals with limb loss and limb difference through free, accessible programming and how professionals and community members can get involved in advancing the Coalition’s mission.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO, of Bremer Prosthetic Design, chats with Adrienne Hill, CPO, LPO, FAAOP, program director of Kennesaw State's O&P Master's Program. Together, they explore the vital role of mentorship, personal branding, and networking in shaping successful careers in the O&P profession. Adrienne shares personal stories and practical advice for emerging professionals, emphasizing the value of authentic connections, empathy, and the give-and-take of mentor-mentee relationships. The conversation also delves into how professionals can balance introverted and extroverted traits to communicate effectively and thrive in a people-focused profession.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode of O&P Rising, recorded live at the 51st Academy Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium in Atlanta, host Kaleigh Neely, CPO, chats with Sheryl Sachs, CPO, of Dankmeyer Prosthetics & Orthotics. They explore the critical role of advocacy in the O&P profession, Sheryl’s journey into policy work, and why young professionals should get involved. The conversation also highlights the importance of research, collaboration, and legislative efforts to shape the future of the profession.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings. 

In this episode, guest host Denise Hull, CPO, a newly certified prosthetist/orthotist at Wheeler O&P, chats with Gerry Stark, PhD, CPO/L, FAAOP(D), director of clinical and technical operations for BionIT Labs and president-elect of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. With over 30 years in the field, Gerry shares invaluable insights on mentorship, professional development, and navigating a purposeful career in O&P. He reflects on the evolution of the Academy, the power of networking, and the importance of embracing innovation. The conversation also explores how early-career clinicians can engage with professional societies, adopt emerging technologies, and set meaningful career goals to thrive in the profession. 

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, guest host Amani Weekes-Daniel, a board-eligible prosthetist/orthotist at Active Life in Los Angeles, sits down with Leigh Davis, MSPO, CPO, LPO, FAAOP(D), from Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, to explore the vital role of mentorship in the O&P profession. Together, they discuss how persistence, goal setting, and consistent communication can build meaningful and impactful mentor-protégé relationships, shaping the future of O&P professionals.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Anna Cook, an orthotic and prosthetic resident at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in St. Paul, Minnesota, takes on hosting duties. She’s joined by Steve Fletcher, CPO, Director of Professional Credentialing for the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics, Inc., to discuss ABC's move to require dual certification for future practitioners. They delve into the historical decisions leading up to this change, which began with an increase in educational requirements and later included combined educational programs. They also cover the shift to combined residencies and board exams, the rationale behind these changes, and the impact on current and future residents. Steve highlights key dates and timelines for these new requirements, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. The conversation also addresses the evolving nature of the profession and how the new dual certification will offer flexibility and efficiency in responding to demands, without compromising the ability to specialize.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Cassandra Delgado, CPO, an early career orthotist-prosthetist and Clinical Director at Prosthetic & Orthotic Associates in Middletown, NY, takes on hosting duties. She’s joined by Maggie Baumer, Leader of Enterprise Patient Advocacy at Hanger Clinic, and Dr. Chad Duncan, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program Director at Drexel University, for an engaging discussion on building a positive workplace culture. Together, they explore the impact of fostering a welcoming environment, encouraging teamwork, and practicing respectful communication. They share actionable strategies to address outdated behaviors, create open dialogue, and handle challenging situations using thoughtful communication techniques, paving the way for a more collaborative and supportive workplace.

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.

Show notes

For additional resources on cultivating positive workplace cultures:

www.righttobe.org/resources 

Regional Resident Liaison (RRL) Network - The National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education 

https://terrellstrayhorn.com/the-belonging-lab/ 

https://community.thriveglobal.com/why-workplace-belonging-is-critical-to-your-bottom-line/ 

https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-create-a-culture-of-belonging-at-your-company/438493 

For HR: 

https://www.shrm.org/home 

In this episode, we continue the conversation with Kaleigh Neely, CPO of the P&O Group, and Abbey Senczyszyn, CPO of Bremer Prosthetic Design, joined by Nate Kapa, CP and president of Bremer Prosthetic Design. Together, they explore the challenges O&P residents face and the support systems that are crucial to their success. Highlighting the residency period as a vital investment in both future clinicians and patient care, they address the financial concerns while emphasizing the long-term benefits. The discussion also touches on the importance of better communication between educational institutions and residency sites to align expectations. Additionally, they underscore the role of enthusiasm, mentorship, and leadership opportunities in sustaining passion and fostering growth among young professionals in the field.

Be sure to listen to part 1 and part 2 of this conversation. 

O&P Rising is produced by Association Briefings.