Our Story

The National Association for the Advancement of Orthotics and Prosthetics, NAAOP, exists because patients do not always receive the O&P care they deserve due to various government policies. Since 1987, NAAOP has shaped positive results in healthcare legislation and regulation through strong government relations advocacy and education of policymakers. NAAOP serves the profession by representing and partnering with only those providers of orthotic and prosthetic services who truly believe that the patient must come first. NAAOP's message is consistent and straightforward because it is driven by the O&P patient's well being. NAAOP is delivering the following messages to lawmakers and regulators:

Patient need must drive all policy.

Payment must be linked to patient need, individual professional competency, and facility accreditation.

Dedicated and committed leaders in the O&P profession - Prosthetists, Orthotists, and manufacturers like you - are the reason NAAOP is able to support a mission that is uniquely patient-centered and member driven. Our story on video illustrates NAAOP's unique role and defines our purpose. View video. It is a history of dedicated professionals banding together to ensure that individuals who use orthotic and prosthetic services receive the professional care they deserve.

It is important to NAAOP that all those involved in O&P patient care are aware of the important role they can play in this mission. Your part in advocating for the millions of people with amputations, limb differences, and orthopedic impairments, as well as for your profession, has never been more important. NAAOP members are active practitioners and manufacturers just like you - and that is what has made the critical difference in achieving success to date. Please join us- your colleagues, in defense of our field.