We're just one step closer to finding out what prosthetics is all about. Let's check it out. Richard Justed [assumed spelling] likes to think that he helps people feel whole again.
Prosthetics is making a device to replace an amputated, missing limb.
Prosthetists can be expected to build the pieces from scratch for a number of different body parts.
From head to toe, from prosthetics and orthotics, is an awful lot and it really takes a lifetime, I think, to start to be proficient at all that.
You can expect to work a typical 40 hour week and you can also expect to multi-task.
We evaluate them, then we design or come up with a design, and then we fabricate it.
Before you can help others take their first step, you're first step is a bachelor's degree in science.
Right now, you need a bachelor's degree. Then after that, you'll do a residency; a one year residency. And then, it takes like another year to sit for your board exams.
All that hard work will get you on your way to helping people. So, a student could look forward to working in a hospital or having their own business. Are there other areas that they can work in?
They can work for a small mom and pop shop; they can work for a large corporation.
With the demand for better medical equipment and devices, and the rise of disease, the job outlook is great.
There's a need for prosthetists, orthotists. Unfortunately, disease and deformity is on the rise.
And with this great job outlook, a prosthetist can look forward to a starting salary of $35,000 a year, and the financial compensation is not all you'll get from this job.
For me, the making the device and helping people function better is very rewarding.
What kind of qualities does Richard suggest make a great prosthetist?
It also helps to be very good at biomechanics and a basic good mechanic with hand skills.
And here's an interesting fact. Over 450,000 prosthetic feet are sold each year in the United States. Now that we've got a feel for prosthetics, I hope we sparked some interest in this exciting career for you. I'm Nicole Aaron [assumed spelling] for YouniversityTV. We'll see you later.
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