Why has this decision been made?
Board of Certification/Accreditation’s (BOC) Board of Directors recently conducted a program-by-program analysis and market scan. As a result of this analysis, BOC’s Board of Directors made the decision to sunset the acceptance of NEW applications for its orthotist (BOCO), prosthetist (BOCP), and pedorthist (BOCPD) certifications. BOC is in a very strong financial position; however, the strategic analysis showed more growth potential in other areas.
How and when will the changes take place?
BOC’s Board of Directors approved a plan that will ensure BOC will continue to provide critical support for its certificants in the orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professions. After July 31, 2016, the organization will be sunsetting the acceptance of NEW applications for its orthotist, prosthetist, and pedorthist certifications.
Will this decision impact current BOC-certified orthotists, prosthetists, and pedorthists?
This decision impacts prospective applicants only. Nothing will change for BOC-certified orthotists, prosthetists, and pedorthists. Certificants will continue to be able to track all continuing education credits, utilize the MYBOC portal, renew certifications, and enjoy BOC’s award-winning customer service. BOC will support certificants in all certification programs throughout their entire careers, and will continue its Alliance representation and communication about key regulatory issues.
How does this decision impact new applicants for these three certifications?
BOC will accept NEW applicants for the orthotist, prosthetist, and pedorthist certifications through July 31, 2016. All applicants in the pipeline as of July 31, 2016 will proceed through the certification process according to BOC’s established protocol. To reiterate, after July 31, 2016, BOC will not accept new applications for the orthotist, prosthetist, and pedorthist certifications.
Will this change impact BOC’s orthotic fitter (COF), mastectomy fitter (CMF), or Durable Medical Equipment specialist (CDME) certification programs? How about BOC’s facility and pharmacy accreditation programs?
No. BOC will continue to accept new applications for these programs. No changes are under consideration in these areas.
Where can I get more information?
If you have additional questions, please contact BOC at 877.776.2200 or visit the website at http://www.bocusa.org/oppchanges.