The Resident’s Perspective

1. The Resident’s Perspective Stephanie Porter, MS,CPO

2. Background • Prosthetic residency 2002-2003 • 2 sites, 3 clinicians • Orthotic residency 2003-2004 • 2 sites, 3 clinicians

4. Variables • Education • Experience • Clinical • Technical • Professional • Family • Initiative • Guidance • Mentorship

5. Education • Shortened educational training • Baccalaureate vs. Post-Baccalaureate • Undergraduate studies • Pre-requisites

6. Clinical Experience Pros • 250 Clinical hours in school • Hands-on field • Synthesis of classroom information with clinical setting • Opportunity for new questions and increased understanding • Organized approach to clinical problem-solving • Newer technology vs. older text

7. Clinical Experience Cons • Not enough autonomy • Limited variety of exposure depending on practice • Decreased continuity if working between practices/clinicians • Cheap labor

8. Limited prior experience Tech tips “Bridging the gap” Repetition of modification, fitting, seeing results Prior experience “Paying dues” mentality Tech work and limited clinical exposure Technical Experience

10. First “real” job Exposure to billing, coding, business practice Case presentations for peers Not first “real” job Different organizational style or approach than preceptor Professional Experience

11. Family • Geography • Family has to move or be separated • Residency goals compromised • Salary lower • Long work hours

12. Initiative A residency is what you make of it

13. Guidance • Quarterly feedback as to where improvement needed • True evaluation of skills • Preparation for exams

14. Mentorship • Connection with seasoned practitioner • Practice in a “safe” environment • Opportunity to pursue research questions • Someone to go to with questions when out in practice

15. Conclusion

17. Questions?

18. Thank You!