Essential Orthotist/Prosthetist Skills for Your Resume

Key Takeaways

• O&P skills divide into three essential domains: clinical assessment (patient evaluation, gait analysis, outcome measurement), fabrication technology (traditional and digital manufacturing), and biomechanical engineering (device design, alignment, material science)
• CAD/CAM proficiency is transitioning from a differentiator to a baseline expectation as the profession moves from plaster casting to digital workflows
• Patient assessment and biomechanical reasoning remain the highest-value skills because they cannot be automated or outsourced to central fabrication facilities
• Business and reimbursement skills (L-code documentation, prior authorization, Medicare compliance) directly affect practice revenue and are increasingly valued by employers
• Outcome measurement competency (PEQ, PLUS-M, OPUS, functional assessments) distinguishes evidence-based practitioners and supports insurance authorization