The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics (ABC) marked its 78th anniversary this month. ABC was established September 9, 1948, by its first president, Chester E. Haddon, CPO; three orthopedic surgeons; and three O&P practitioners who developed the initial growth plan and established the mission to support high standards for clinical O&P care.
Originally called the American Board for Certification of the Orthotic and Prosthetic Appliance Industry, the name was changed in 1959 to the American Board for Certification in Orthotics & Prosthetics. In 2007, the Board for Certification in Pedorthics was integrated into ABC, leading to its current name.
Changes over the years included creating a code of ethics program and helping to establish the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists and the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education.
