Jason,
I’m not replying directly to you but to all those whose post echo your
sentiment. First of all. let me assure you that you’re passion and feeling
about our field is no different than what all the ABC board members share.
Let me point out that every current ABC board member, with the exception of
our public members, have gone though the same pathway as you. There are
certain facts you must keep in mind.
Like it or not, the federal government as well as most major payers do not
differentiate between ABC or BOC credentials. It’s sad but it’s a fact.
Because of the size and division in our field, we have not been able to come
forward with a unified voice and look at what has happened. We now have a
fee freeze from CMS, competitive bidding is now a reality, our field is
being encroached upon by PT’s and OT’s, and our spinal codes have been
“reclassified” and the reimbursement levels slashed. These are only a few
examples of what’s taken place over the past few years.
I’m not saying that a unified voice would have prevented all this but
obviously our division did not. To stand back and do nothing will allow the
further demise of our field. Is this the right thing or not, only time will
tell. But at least we are doing something. Our hope was a unification of
the two creditialling bodies. When the BOC board of directors were
unwilling to document in writting what they verbally agreed to, it became
apparent that futher negotiations unnecessary.
I am sick of the all posts indicating that all the education current ABC
certifies attained is for nothing. As Orthotist and Prosthetists, you are
charged with providing the highest quality O & P care you possibly can. Do
you not feel that the education you received along with completion of your
formal residency and passing the most rigorous exams have best prepared you?
I’ve been certified since 1980. I have a bachelors degree and took a formal
residency before one was required. Why did I do this, because I felt it
prepared me to be the best Orthotist I could be. I feel they patients I
treat deserve no less.
In 22 or the 24 years I’ve been certified, I’ve been in management
positions. When I fill an open position for a certified orthotist or
prosthetist, I don’t just look at their title. I look into their
educational background and training as well as previous experience. Do you
not think your training and education would separate you from others seeking
the same position. Our patients are requesting more information on
individuals treating them with regards to education and training. Jason,
what you have achieved separates you among others. If you and others want
more public recognition for your past education, add more letters after your
name and include your college degree.
Again Jason, I’m not replying directly to your post but to all those with
similar content.
Respectfully,
Jeffrey I. Yakovich, B.Sc., C.O., L.O.
ABC Board of Directors, Secretary Treasurer
—– Original Message —–
From: “Frisch, Jason, Co”
To:
Sent: Saturday, March 06, 2004 7:16 AM
Subject: [OANDP-L] one more thought on abc
> If all abc members were to join boc, could we not then elect a previous
abc member or 3 to the board and begin some type of educational reform for
incoming members while lobbying the governmenrt for recognition of only boc
based on specific points and educational merits. Granted it would take time
but boc would have the power that abc has wanted all along and members of
boc have a vote. AOPA, NCOPE and everyone else could work with boc, and abc
will disappear over the next five years like the NY organization. We have
our unification. Although not easily done, it is feasible with appropriate
support and planning.
>
> If abc does not want other ideas like this posted then pull your heads out
of your rearends and get with the program. If you’re going to let in boc
then make them pass the darn abc tests and pay the fees and waive the dues
for 1 year.
>
> Respectful as I can possibly be,
> Jason Frisch, abc CO
>
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