Questions to ask an O&P clinic before you choose one
A checklist covering certification, accreditation, experience, insurance, warranty, repair turnaround, adjustments and second opinions.
Choosing an O&P clinic is a long-term decision because you may see the same team for repairs, adjustments and replacements for years. The questions below can help you compare clinics fairly. A good clinic should be comfortable answering all of them.
Who will treat me?
- Is a certified practitioner on staff? Ask whether the person who will evaluate and fit you is certified by ABC or BOC, and licensed if your state requires it. You can check on the ABC directory or through BOC.
- Will that person do the work personally? Some tasks are handled by technicians or assistants under supervision. Ask which parts are done by whom.
- Is the practitioner a resident or in training? Residents work under supervision, which is normal, but you should know.
Is the facility accredited?
Ask whether the clinic is accredited and by which organization, such as ABC or BOC. Accreditation looks at the facility, its records and its processes rather than one person's skill. Medicare-billing suppliers must be accredited. See our credentials guide for the difference between practitioner and facility credentials.
Experience with your situation
- How often does the clinic treat people with your amputation level, diagnosis or condition?
- Does the practitioner have experience with the type of device you need, such as a microprocessor knee, an upper-limb prosthesis, a pediatric device or a spinal brace?
- Can the clinic put you in touch with a patient who has a similar device, or with a local support group? The Amputee Coalition also offers peer support.
- Does the clinic work closely with your physician and physical therapist?
Be cautious of any clinic that promises particular results before evaluating you.
Insurance and costs
- Is the clinic in network with my plan and enrolled with Medicare or Medicaid?
- Does it accept assignment for Medicare?
- Who handles prior authorization, and what will I owe before and after the device is delivered?
- Can I have an estimate in writing?
Our Medicare and insurance guide explains these terms. Veterans can also ask about VA options through the VA Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
Warranty, repairs and follow-up
- What does the warranty cover, for how long, and for which parts? Is it in writing?
- Does the warranty cover the socket, components and liners separately?
- How long do repairs usually take, and can I borrow a loaner if my device is out of service?
- How many adjustment visits are expected after delivery, and are they billed separately?
- What is the process for an emergency repair, including evenings, weekends and travel?
- How soon can I be seen if the fit changes or I develop skin problems?
Repair access matters as much as the first fitting. A device that cannot be repaired quickly may leave you without mobility or support.
Communication and accessibility
- Is the office accessible, and are there evening or home visits if travel is hard?
- How do I contact the clinic between visits, and who answers?
- Will the practitioner explain options, including the tradeoffs of different components, in plain language?
Second opinions
You are entitled to seek a second opinion, especially before a major or costly device, when you are unsure about a recommendation, or when you are unhappy with your fit. A reputable clinic should not object. Ask your first clinic for copies of your records, measurements and prescription. Your physician can also refer you to another provider. If you move between clinics, ask how warranty and records will be handled.
Where to look next
Use the provider listings on this site to find clinics near you, then check credentials and accreditation with the certifying boards. You can also consult your state licensing agency to confirm that a license is active and to learn how to file a complaint. The Amputee Coalition guide to locating a certified prosthetist is another useful reference. This listing is based on public NPI registry data and is not an endorsement or a quality rating of any provider.