The US Department of Education has suggested a redefinition of which education programs qualify as professional degrees for federal loan eligibility, and published the notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register. Under the proposal, O&P education would be excluded from higher loan limits, regardless of degree level or licensure requirements. If finalized, the change would create a financial barrier for future O&P students. limiting who is able to enter the profession. A public comment period is open through March 2.
The American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy) is collecting input from its members through February 20 to submit comments by the deadline on behalf of the profession. “Whether you are a clinician, educator, employer, researcher, or student, your perspective is critical to ensuring policymakers understand the real-world impact of this proposal,” the Academy said.
To read the draft legislation, “Reimagining and Improving Student Education,” visit the Federal Register.
To submit comments to the Academy, visit “Share Your Perspective on O&P Student Loan Access.”
To submit comments directly to the Federal eRulemaking Portal, visit regulations.gov.
