Registered Technician RTO(c), RTP(c), RTPO(c)

The Role of a Registered Technician RTO(c), RTP(c), RTPO(c)

Registered technicians make prostheses and orthoses from technical specifications, measurements and positive models, either plaster or foam using a variety of materials, such as:

Thermosetting resins
Thermoforming plastics
Metal
Fabrics
Leather

Registered Technicians are competent in the use of many hand tools and specialized machines for the fabrication of orthotic and prosthetic devices. New techniques, including additive design and manufacture (3D printing), support the demand for technically competent people in this field.

Registration of technicians promotes the development of technical competence and provides recognition within the profession of those individuals who demonstrate technical competence in orthotics and/or prosthetics. Technician Registration is awarded as an attestation of competency for the public, those who require orthotic/prosthetic services, and those in other health professions. The awarding of registration provides the Registered Technician with an appropriate and meaningful recognition of professional competence.

There are two pathways to become a Registered Technician in Canada.

Method I

High school diploma
Completion of the two year accredited Orthotic/Prosthetic Technician Program at George Brown College in Toronto
Register for OPC Internship Program
Completion of a two year internship in prosthetics or orthotics under the supervision of a Registered Technician or Certified clinician in the appropriate discipline.
Successful challenge of the written and practical national board exams.
Adherence to the Canons of Ethical Conduct.

Method II (do not need to complete the two year George Brown College Technician program)

High school diploma
Register for OPC Internship Program
Completion of a four year internship in prosthetics or orthotics under the supervision of a Registered Technician or Certified clinician in the appropriate discipline.
Successful challenge of the written and practical national board exams.
Adherence to the Canons of Ethical Conduct.

A Registered Technician in Prosthetics Orthotics RTPO(c) has completed an internship in each discipline and has passed both national credentialing exams. These professionals are credentialed to fabricate prosthetic and/or orthotic devices.

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