BPO – PROSTHETICS AND ORTHOTICS (P&O) COURSE – COURSE, ELIGIBILITY, DURATION, COURSE CURRICULUM, FEE STRUCTURE, CAREER OPPORTUNITY (ABROAD) AND SALARY
(P&O) COURSE
In India, there are several institutions that offer courses in Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O). These courses are designed to train individuals in the field of designing, manufacturing, fitting, and maintaining prosthetic and orthotic devices for people with physical disabilities. Here are some notable institutions in India that offer P&O courses:
- All India Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AIIPMR), Mumbai: AIIPMR is one of the premier institutes for P&O education in India. They offer a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course, which is a four-and-a-half-year program including an internship.
- Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya National Institute for Persons with Physical Disabilities (Divyangjan) (formerly NIOH), Kolkata: This institute offers a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course. The duration of the program is four years, including an internship.
- National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities (NIEPMD), Chennai: NIEPMD offers a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course. The program duration is four years, including an internship.
- Maharshi Karve Stree Shikshan Samstha (MKSSS), Pune: MKSSS offers a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course. The program duration is four years, including an internship.
- Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine and Allied Sciences (IRMAS), New Delhi: IRMAS offers a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course. The program duration is four years, including an internship.
ELIGIBILITY
The eligibility criteria for Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) courses in India may vary slightly between institutions. However, the general eligibility requirements for pursuing a P&O course are as follows:
- Educational Qualification: Candidates should have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board or equivalent examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as compulsory subjects. Some institutions may also consider candidates with a diploma in a relevant field.
- Minimum Marks: Candidates must have obtained a minimum aggregate percentage in their 10+2 or equivalent examination, usually ranging from 45% to 50%. The specific percentage requirement may vary between institutions, so it’s important to check the admission criteria of the desired institution.
- Age Limit: The age limit for P&O courses also varies between institutions. Generally, candidates should be at least 17 years old at the time of admission. Some institutions may have an upper age limit as well, typically around 25 to 30 years.
DURATION
In India, the duration of Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) courses typically varies depending on the level of the program. Here are the usual durations for P&O courses in India:
- Bachelor’s Degree (BPO): The undergraduate program for P&O is commonly known as the Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics (BPO) course. The duration of a BPO program is generally four years, including both theoretical coursework and practical training. This duration may vary slightly between institutions.
- Diploma Courses: Some institutions may offer diploma courses in P&O. The duration of these programs can range from one to three years, depending on the specific diploma course and institution.
COURSE CONTENT
The content of Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) courses in India typically covers a wide range of theoretical and practical subjects related to the design, manufacturing, fitting, and maintenance of prosthetic and orthotic devices. The specific course content may vary slightly between institutions, but here are some common topics that are typically covered in P&O courses:
- Anatomy and Physiology: This subject provides a comprehensive understanding of the human body’s musculoskeletal system, including bones, muscles, joints, and nerves. It focuses on the structure and function of the human body, which is essential for designing and fitting prosthetic and orthotic devices.
- Biomechanics: Biomechanics involves the study of the mechanical principles governing the human body’s movement. It includes topics such as forces, moments, kinetics, kinematics, gait analysis, and the application of these principles in the design and function of prosthetics and orthotics.
- Materials and Manufacturing: This subject covers different materials used in the fabrication of prosthetic and orthotic devices, including metals, plastics, composites, and others. It also includes hands-on training in various manufacturing techniques like molding, shaping, casting, and machining.
- Prosthetic and Orthotic Principles: This subject provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and techniques involved in the design, fitting, and alignment of prosthetic and orthotic devices. It includes topics such as socket design, suspension systems, component selection, alignment, and gait training.
- Clinical Assessment and Prescription: This subject focuses on patient evaluation and assessment techniques to determine the appropriate prosthetic or orthotic device for an individual. It covers topics like patient history taking, physical examination, functional assessment, and prescription writing.
- Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies: This subject covers rehabilitation strategies, techniques, and technologies used to enhance the mobility and independence of individuals with physical disabilities. It includes topics like gait training, mobility aids, assistive devices, and adaptive technologies.
- Professional Ethics and Communication: This subject emphasizes the ethical considerations, professional conduct, and effective communication skills required in the field of P&O. It covers topics like patient interaction, interdisciplinary collaboration, documentation, and legal aspects.
FEE STRUCTURE
The fee structure for Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) courses in India can vary significantly depending on the institution, the level of the program (diploma or bachelor’s degree), and whether the institution is government-funded or private. It’s important to note that the fee structure mentioned here is a general estimate, and the actual fees may vary. Here are some approximate fee ranges for P&O courses in India:
- Diploma Courses: The fee for diploma courses in P&O can range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year. The fee may vary based on the reputation of the institution, infrastructure, and other facilities provided.
- Bachelor’s Degree (BPO) Courses: The fee for a BPO program can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 per year. Government-funded institutions generally have lower fees compared to private institutions.
It’s important to consider additional expenses such as hostel fees, examination fees, books, and other materials, which are not included in the tuition fee. These additional expenses can vary from institution to institution.
CAREER OPPORTUNITY
A career in Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) offers a range of opportunities for individuals interested in assisting people with physical disabilities. Here are some potential career opportunities in the field of P&O:
- Prosthetist-Orthotist: This is the primary career role in P&O. Prosthetist-Orthotists are responsible for assessing patients, designing and fabricating prosthetic and orthotic devices, fitting and aligning them to the patient’s needs, and providing ongoing support and maintenance. They work closely with patients, doctors, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.
- Clinical Specialist: Clinical specialists in P&O work closely with prosthetist-orthotists, assisting in patient assessment, device fitting, and patient management. They may specialize in specific areas such as pediatric P&O, upper limb P&O, or sports orthotics, and work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or specialized clinics.
- Research and Development: There are opportunities for individuals interested in research and development in the field of P&O. They may work in research institutions, universities, or private companies, focusing on developing new materials, technologies, and techniques for prosthetics and orthotics.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Rehabilitation centers often employ prosthetist-orthotists and P&O professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients with physical disabilities. These centers may offer opportunities for career advancement and specialization in specific areas of rehabilitation.
- Government and Non-Governmental Organizations: P&O professionals can also find employment opportunities in government healthcare organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that focus on providing rehabilitation services and assistive devices to individuals with physical disabilities.
- Academia and Teaching: Some P&O professionals pursue careers in academia, becoming instructors, lecturers, or professors in P&O programs. They play a vital role in training future generations of P&O professionals.
- Entrepreneurship: P&O professionals with experience and expertise may choose to start their own private clinics or manufacturing units, offering personalized services and innovative solutions in the field of P&O.
SALARY
The salary of professionals in the field of Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) can vary based on several factors, including job position, experience, location, and the type of organization or institution they work for. Here is a general overview of the salary range for P&O professionals in India:
- Entry-Level Positions: As a fresher in the field of P&O, such as a Junior Prosthetist-Orthotist or Clinical Specialist, the salary can range from approximately INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 per month. This can vary based on the organization and location.
- Mid-Level Positions: With a few years of experience, P&O professionals can expect to earn a higher salary. The salary for mid-level positions, such as Senior Prosthetist-Orthotist or experienced Clinical Specialists, can range from approximately INR 25,000 to INR 50,000 per month.
- Senior-Level Positions and Specialists: P&O professionals with significant experience and expertise, such as Prosthetics and Orthotics Consultants or those specializing in a particular area, can earn higher salaries. In such positions, salaries can range from approximately INR 50,000 to INR 1,00,000 or more per month.
SALARY ABROAD
The salary of Prosthetics and Orthotics (P&O) professionals abroad can vary significantly depending on factors such as the country of employment, level of experience, job position, and the cost of living in that particular country. Here is a general overview of P&O salaries in some popular destinations:
United States: In the United States, the salary of P&O professionals varies based on factors such as experience, location, and job position. On average, entry-level positions can range from approximately $50,000 to $70,000 per year. With experience and specialization, salaries can increase significantly, ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 or more per year.
United Kingdom: In the United Kingdom, the salary of P&O professionals varies based on factors such as experience, level of responsibility, and the location of employment. Entry-level salaries can range from approximately £25,000 to £35,000 per year. With experience and specialization, salaries can range from £35,000 to £55,000 or more per year.
Australia: In Australia, the salary of P&O professionals depends on factors such as experience, location, and level of responsibility. Entry-level salaries can range from approximately AUD 50,000 to AUD 70,000 per year. With experience and specialization, salaries can range from AUD 70,000 to AUD 100,000 or more per year.
Canada: In Canada, the salary of P&O professionals can vary based on experience, location, and job position. Entry-level salaries can range from approximately CAD 50,000 to CAD 70,000 per year. With experience and specialization, salaries can range from CAD 70,000 to CAD 100,000 or more per year.
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