FAOP Hosts Successful Conference The Florida Association of Orthotists and Prosthetists (FAOP), in partnership with the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists (the Academy), conducted a successful conference in Orlando, Florida, July 14-16. FAOP hosted more than 256 practitioners at this year's conference, which was held at the Hyatt Grand Regency Resort. Dino Scanio, CO, LO, FAOP treasurer and conference coordinator said the FAOP conference has had a steady increase in attendees over the last four years. "I believe our attendance continues to increase due to our consistent focus on the family, quality education, and getting the most for your money when you register," Scanio said. Vendor workshop presentations covered topics such as spine trauma management and orthotic intervention by Cybertech Medical, La Verne, California; and the synergy of clinical expertise and lower-limb product technology by Freedom Innovations, Irvine, California; among others. Scientific presentation topics ranged from understanding legal structures and asset protection to prosthetic alternatives in the management of partial-hand amputations and the future of O&P. Networking events included a vendor reception, a cocktail party to raise awareness for The Barr Foundation, and a banquet, which catered to the attendees and their children. During the banquet, children were given customized goodie bags and were entertained with a variety of kid-friendly activities including a live reptile show, a performance by a Las Vegas "Elvis," and many dance contests. A disc jockey kept the entertainment going well into the evening. On the final day, conference goers attended a guerilla marketing course, which explained how to market a business on a budget. They also received an overview on the new prosthetics program at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). All the required courses for state licensure were also available. Trulife, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, sponsored the annual conference, and FAOP said it welcomed back many companies and had five new vendors join the ranks in 2011. FAOP's 2012 annual conference will be held, August 9-11, at the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort and Spa.
