Orthotist
By Physicians referral, Orthotists assess patients for Orthopedic Braces for Upper Extremity, Lower Extremity, and Spinal Dysfunctions caused by trauma, disease, and congenital reasons. Orthotists design, fabricate, fit, align and maintain said braces (Orthoses) with input from patient, physician, and therapists.
A degree (usually in Kinesiology) based on anatomy and physiology, plus two years in Vancouver or Toronto in Prosthetics and Orthotics Clinical School. Two more years work and training in a sponsored Internship is required, followed by final Certification exams.
In a Rehabilitation Hospital
Interaction with the broader medical team of nurses and other therapists.
We could use a couple more Orthotists to keep wait times down.
Longer wait times for services. If the patient waiting is a diabetic with a pressure ulcer on his foot, the cost of waiting could be an amputation. For a child with scoliosis (curvature of the spine) waiting could let the condition worsen, perhaps leading to a deformity or surgery. For a child with Cerebral Palsy waiting for leg braces means delaying weight bearing that contributes to proper growth. For adults with knee pain it could make the difference of holding down a job or not.