Prosthetist-orthotist jobs

Helping your patients to run, improve their walking, or even just stand without discomfort may completely alter the course of their lives. Prosthetists and orthotists help their patients regain the ability to move in a manner that is as free from discomfort as it is feasible to be, and they do it by using the most up-to-date technology in the fabrication and customization of prostheses and aids.

a day at the office

Both prosthetists and orthotists work toward the same goal, which is to enhance a person's mobility so that they have more freedom of movement. Orthotists use a variety of devices to address issues or deformities in nerves, muscles, and bones, while prosthetists are responsible for the creation and fitting of artificial limb replacements for patients who are missing a limb.

There is a wide variety of jobs, which may include the following:

observing the whole of the recovery process while providing a veteran with a prosthesis that you fit for them.

advising a surgeon while they are carrying out an amputation and asking for their input.

assisting patients of a wide variety of ages, from toddlers to elderly, including those diagnosed with cerebral palsy and arthritis.

avoiding the need for a patient to have an amputation by using splints and shoes that are difficult to put on and take off.

Entry requirements

To become a prosthetist or an orthotist, you must first get a degree that is recognized in the field of prosthetics and orthotics and pass it with a passing grade. There are just a few of institutions in the UK that provide full-time programs that may last anywhere from three to four years, depending on the institution. Before you are allowed to begin working in your field, the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) will require that you get registered with them once you have successfully finished your degree program. You also have the option of pursuing a degree that was earned via an apprenticeship.

The logo for apprenticeships

The following are normally required to enroll in a course at the undergraduate level:

two or three A levels, at least one of which must be in mathematics, and at least one of which must be in biology/human biology, engineering, or physics.

a total of five GCSEs, with marks ranging from A to C, covering science, math, and English language.

Or the credentials that are equivalent:

a Bachelor of Technology in Engineering or Mathematics (BTEC), Higher National Diploma (HND), or Higher National Certificate (HNC), respectively.

a relevant NVQ.

a gateway class focused on the natural sciences.

credentials from Scotland or Ireland that are comparable.

a prior degree or a complete practicing certification in the relevant field is required for this position.

Because each institution determines its own admission standards, it is essential to get in touch with the schools of interest immediately. When applying for a degree in prosthetics and orthotics, you will be required to demonstrate how you feel the values of the NHS relate to the job that you do on a daily basis.

Annual payments

If you are qualified, you will get a yearly stipend of at least 6,000 pounds to assist with the costs of your education while you are attending college. It's possible that because of your unique circumstances, you may get more. What's the good news, you ask? You won't ever have to worry about having to pay it back. Learn as much as you can.

Apprenticeship leading to a degree

Another method to get into the prosthetist or orthotist field is to do an apprenticeship with a healthcare professional after earning your degree. Apprenticeships provide individuals with the opportunity to earn a livelihood while simultaneously working toward the completion of their certification. In order to fulfill the academic requirements of the apprenticeship, you will normally need to possess credentials at the level 3 level, in addition to having a genuine interest in working as a prosthetist or orthotist. Apprenticeships are not eligible for student grants since your employer and the government will pay the tuition expenses; nevertheless, you will be paid throughout your time in an apprenticeship.

Must-have skills

It is important to keep in mind that scholastic accomplishments are not the only thing that matters. It is not enough to just cure your patients' physical ailments in your role as an orthotist or prosthetist; you also need to ensure that they are content with the prosthesis or brace that you have provided for them. You'll need to be able to communicate effectively with your patients and establish a strong connection with them. You'll also need to be proficient at arithmetic and have both practical and technical abilities at your disposal. Because getting the most out of a prosthesis or assistance may need a great deal of tweaking, this is a physically demanding activity that requires you to make extensive use of your hands.

Instruction and advancement in one's profession

You have the option of specializing as either a prosthetist or an orthotist after you have obtained your qualifications and are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. There are probably professions out there that allow you to combine the two. You will have yearly check-ins for Continuing Professional Development (CPD), during which we will review your career goals and plan how we may assist you in achieving those goals. This will ensure that you are continually making progress in your professional life. You might also join the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO), which offers a variety of educational opportunities, including courses, conferences, and seminars, to help keep your professional abilities current.

You might choose to specialize in dealing with children, neurological problems, diabetes, or sports injuries. Another option would be to work with athletes. Other possible job paths include research and management, as well as teaching.

Benefits and remuneration

If you are employed by the NHS, the typical length of your workweek will be roughly 37.5 hours, and it is possible that you may be required to work a variety of shifts, including nights, early mornings, evenings, and weekends. On the Agenda for Change (AFC) pay scale, which commonly begins at band 5, you will be paid. In addition, you will get 27 days of yearly vacation in addition to the bank holidays, as well as savings on health services and participation in our comprehensive pension plan.

Because some prosthetists and orthotists work in the private sector but are contracted to provide their services to the NHS, the terms and circumstances of their employment may vary.