What is Prosthetics?
Prosthetics is a profession aligned to medicine. A prosthetist is the title of someone who works clinically within the profession. The role of the prosthetist involves the prescription of appropriate prostheses and the care and rehabilitation of those who are without a limb or limbs.
A prosthesis in this context is an external body part replacement. For example someone who requires the surgical removal of their lower leg will require the services of a prosthetist.
What is Orthotics?
Orthotics is a profession aligned to medicine and Orthotist is the title given to a person who works clinically within the profession. The role of an Orthotist involves the prescription of appropriate orthoses and the care of those who present with limb or limbs with a level of functional loss.
A Career in Prosthetics & Orthotics
There is currently no course in Ireland to become a qualified Prosthetist & Orthotist. Professionals practicing in Ireland have study internationally, most commonly in the UK.
You will need to take a three or four year BSc (Hons) degree in prosthetics and orthotics, approved by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists and the Health and Care Professions Council. The approved degree course is available at two universities in the UK:
- University of Salford – School of Health Sciences
- University of Strathclyde – The National Centre for Training and Education in Prosthetics and Orthotics
To get on to a degree you will usually need at least five GCSEs (A-C), including English, maths and a science-based subject, as well as three A levels, including maths and either biology, physics or chemistry.