Re: Infusion of new blood for O&P unlikely-RESPONSE

Jim Rogers, CPO

Description

Title:

Re: Infusion of new blood for O&P unlikely-RESPONSE

Creator:

Jim Rogers, CPO

Text:

Stan:

I have missed your previous comments so will restrict my response to this
post. Your perspective is accurate; your aim is off a bit though. You seem to
show the same lack of perspective that many new graduates (regardless of
field) show when their enthusiasm is considerably higher than their practical
experience. For the record:

The orthotic and prosthetic profession is embryonic when compared to other
allied health professions. At slightly more than fifty years old a quick look
at our history would show that we have risen from a field of veterans with
little more than a trade skill to a profession with the beginnings of
scientific documentation and a minimum bachelors requirement for specialized
study. How many fields or professions can you name that have increased their
educational requirements by four years before specialized training in fifty
years. Consider further that our profession is a booming 3500 strong compared
to the APTA which boasts about 90,000 members, or the AAOS which registers
over 10,000 for its anual meeting alone. Sure, as a profession we have missed
opportunities and squandered efforts to improve our professional status over
the years. But.. we have also made tremendous strides on behalf of the
patients we serve in terms of technological advances and in terms of our
poitical influence given our dimunitive size. You have to decide if the glass
is half full or half empty.
One thing I'm sure of: The successful and influencial practitioners in our
profession have a passion for what we do and what we contribute to the lives
of others. We also share a deep sense of satisfaction that transends money
(But, granted doesn't always replace it) O and P is not perfect, it certainly
has its challenges ahead, but it is not DOA, and certainly not looking for an
identity. We need passionate persons with vision and dedication to our
mission. If you're not that person, fine. But don't slam my collegues or my
profession until you've worn my shoes for a while and yes, put your time in
the plaster room.

JIM ROGERS, CPO

                          

Citation

Jim Rogers, CPO, “Re: Infusion of new blood for O&P unlikely-RESPONSE,” Digital Resource Foundation for Orthotics and Prosthetics, accessed November 26, 2024, https://library.drfop.org/items/show/215485.