From The Editor

The Internet: marvel--or monster?

The Internet has put a vast library at the fingertips of worldwide users. Answers to questions that before might have taken days or even weeks to find can sometimes be accessed in minutes, if not seconds. Colleagues around the world can be consulted by e-mail messages sent perhaps thousands of miles in the blink of an eye. Telemedicine opens up vistas of patients being able to consult with healthcare providers and for these professionals to confer with one another without ever leaving home or office. Distance learning via the Internet reveals a whole new world of educational possibilities.

Technology is a tool, and like any tool, whether it is a marvel or a monster depends mainly on the user. Through the Internet, users can learn more about helping others--or they can learn how to build bombs. They can search the Internet for knowledge that enhances the quality of life--or they can spend time visiting the websites of hate groups and pornographers.

Internet technology improves administrative functions, along with enabling quick and comprehensive communications between various offices in the same company. However, this technology can also raise concerns about protecting patient privacy. E-mail can open the door to annoying spam and such destructive pests as viruses and worms.

The feature article in this issue, "Making the Internet Work for You," deals with some of these issues. Also explored in this issue is a pilot distance learning program from the Newington Certificate Program. Future articles will continue to help you make the most of the Internet as a marvel--and not a monster.

Table Of Contents - June 2003

	Making the Internet Work for You Tips and techniques that will help you make better use of the Internet tools that are available. Feature
	Business Software: Its Role in Your Office Billing and practice management software and associated services are continuously evolving in an attempt to lift some of the administrative load off busy O&P practices. Feature
	Orthotic & Prosthetic Technological Association (OPTA) “The mission of OPTA is to recognize and fulfill the unique professional needs of the orthotic and prosthetic technical specialist.” Shop Talk
	Distance Learning: A New Era In Orthotic/Prosthetic Education Education Outlook
	Otto Bock Initiative Includes Upper-Extremity Professional Services Team Leading EDGE
	Creative Adaptations: Helping Young People with Disabilities Salute!
	Glasgow Hosts BAPO Conference Global View
	Alicia Marquardson, CO Profiles
	It’s All About Education, Training, and Experience Perspective
	From The Editor Viewpoints