Orthotist or Prosthetist (Occupation Code : 321118)
Career Media
Description
Designs, builds, fits and repairs splints, braces, callipers, artificial limbs and related appliances to restore function or compensate for muscular and skeletal disabilities.Tasks
Designing and/or production of appliances intended to restore function or compensate limitations in the muscula-skeletal system.
Designing and/or production of appliances intended to replace in whole or in part, amputated or deformed limbs, to restore or improve function.
Positioning and adjusting settings and controls of appliances according to technical specifications.
Working in a team with other health professionals and the patient to diminish a physical disability.
Constructing appliances and limbs from a variety of materials, using a number of processes including sawing, drilling, riveting and moulding molten plastic.
Testing limbs for freedom of movement and other functional efficiency.
Alternate Occupation Names
Artificial Limb Maker
Orthotist Tradesman
Artificial Limb Fitter Technician
Orthopaedic Appliance Maker / Repairer
Learning Pathways
Diploma 1
Step 1 : Admission requirements
- NCS Bachelor pass with Maths and Science
To enter this learning pathway you will need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or a National Certificate (Vocational) NC(V) with Mathematics and Physical Science as subjects. In addition, each education institution has its own unique entry requirements for each of its programmes. It is important to check the entry requirements with the institution of your choice before you apply.
Step 2 : General Qualification
Step 3 : General Qualification
Step 4 : Designation
- Designation: Medical Orthotist / Prosthetist
This designation is awarded by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). A designation is a title that professional persons may use (write behind their name) to indicate that they are fully qualified in a certain professional field and are members of a professional body. It also indicates that the persons subscribe to the code of conduct of that professional body.