64B14-3.001. Definitions

In this chapter, the following terms shall mean:

(1) Orthotics/Prosthetics – the entire practice of orthotics and prosthetics, to include pedorthics, but may apply to a single level of license where appropriate.

(2) ABC – The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics, Inc.

(3) Adjust – to modify or reposition components of a device to increase its function, fit, or comfort.

(4) Arch Support – a device used in the shoe to provide foot comfort by increasing support but does not apply therapeutic forces.

(5) Assemble – to join components, either prefabricated or custom made into a device to be applied to a patient.

(6) BOC – Board of Certification/Accreditation, International.

(7) CAAHEP – Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs.

(8) Consultation – the offering of information aimed at the resolution of a perceived problem.

(9) Design – to conceive and plan the fabrication of a device, using components or materials, to achieve a specific function.

(10) Direct Supervision means:

(a) The licensed orthotist, prosthetist, orthotist/prosthetist, or pedorthist will provide a physical evaluation of each patient’s orthotic and or prosthetic needs and may delegate appropriate duties to support personnel. However, the licensed practitioner shall physically evaluate the effectiveness, appropriateness and fit of all devices within the scope of the licensed practitioner’s licensure practice requirements, including those repaired devices in which the repairs affect the fit, physical structure or biomechanical function of the device, on every patient, prior to patient use of the device;

(b) For the purpose of replacement of worn or broken components which do not in any way alter the fit, physical structure or biomechanical functioning of the existing device, direct supervision of support personnel providing repairs to orthoses or prostheses means the aforementioned repair must be approved by the appropriately licensed practitioner prior to beginning of repairs. The responsible licensed practitioner must at all times be accessible by two way communication, enabling the supervisor to respond to questions relating to the repair.

(11) Evaluate – to make observational, verbal, or manual determinations of the function of the musculoskeletal or neuromuscular system relative to orthotics and prosthetics, including, but not limited to, range of motion of a joint, motor power, postural attitudes, biomechanical function, locomotion, surgical interventions, or functional abilities, for the purpose of making recommendations for treatment.

(12) Fabricate – to modify or combine materials and components in their original or altered state to create an orthosis or prosthesis which will be applied to a patient.

(13) Fit – to modify or alter the contour, shape, volume, stiffness, or position of a device to change its function or comfort.

(14) General supervision – supervision where the qualified supervisor is accessible at all times by two way communication, which enables the supervisor to respond to an inquiry when made and to be readily available for consultation during the delivery of care; and is within commuting distance in reasonable geographical proximity.

(15) Initial Training – instructing the patient in the use of orthotic or prosthetic devices.

(16) Internship – professional experience that meets the requirement of rule 64B14-4.100, F.A.C.

(17) Mandatory courses – those courses defined by Board rule 64B14-5.005, F.A.C., and required by the Board for registration, initial license, and license renewal.

(18) Measure – to capturing the image or dimensions of the body by any means, including optical, mechanical, radiographic, ultrasonic, magnetic, or electronic.

(19) Minor Modification – adjustment of prefabricated devices to increase patient comfort, but does not include changes to the design or contours of the device.

(20) NCOPE – National Commission on Orthotics and Prosthetics Education.

(21) One year of work experience – 1900 hours of work in the field of orthotics/prosthetics, completed in no less than 10 months.

(22) Prefabricated – made to a standard size or for a generalized model not based on a particular patient’s measurements or image.

(23) Prosthetic Fillers – soft inserts used in the shoe to replace the amputated portion of the forefoot for cosmesis and comfort but not for increased function.

(24) Qualified Supervisor – an individual licensed or certified as required by the applicable rule who has not had action taken against his or her license or certification by a licensing jurisdiction or certifying body.

(25) Residency – a training program that meets the requirements of rule 64B14-4.100, F.A.C.

(26) Shoe Modification – additions to footwear that alter the forces applied to the foot, making the footwear therapeutic.

(27) Soft – composed of materials such as fabric or foams having a porous cellular structure without any rigid support either internal or external other than flexible supports used to maintain proper fit.

(28) Support Personnel – any person who is not licensed by the Board of Orthotists and Prosthetists to perform a given task, procedure or service.

(29) Therapeutic – applying forces to the body to modify structural alignment, correct a deformity or alleviate pain.

Rulemaking Authority 468.802 FS. Law Implemented 468.803, 468.808, 468.809 FS. History–New 10-21-99, Amended 2-19-04, 5-5-04, 5-23-07, 8-8-07, 3-2-08, 4-12-10, 8-27-24.