From the Editor: AOPA National Assembly
By Miki Fairley An organization's ability to learn - and translate
that learning into action rapidly - is the ultimate competitive
advantage. - Jack Welch, former chairman and CEO of
General Electric.
 One important way to get this advantage is by
attending and participating in professional and trade meetings.
This month, AOPA provides a full menu at its National Assembly in
Hollywood, Florida. More than 90 percent of the clinical education
planned for the National Assembly September 20-23 has never before
been offered at a national O&P meeting, according to AOPA.
Also, enhanced practice management programs will help enable
business owners to maintain a profitable practice without taking
time away from patient care, AOPA noted. The new day
pattern--Monday through Thursday--instead of the traditional
Wednesday-Saturday, will enable attendees and families to enjoy a
weekend of fun-filled activities.
O&P: Where Is It Heading?
Healthcare costs are rising, but O&P at this point does not
seem likely to share in the increased revenue. Plus, O&P
companies, like businesses everywhere, are faced with rising
healthcare insurance costs for their employees--a fact that is
especially putting a squeeze on smaller businesses. What current
and future trends will impact O&P and healthcare in general?
Some industry professionals present their analyses in one of this
issue's feature articles "O&P
and Healthcare: Where Are They Heading?".
New Educational Opportunity
Education can be one avenue to help O&P professionals and
other allied rehab providers to control their future rather than
have it control them. Keeping abreast of innovations and learning
new clinical and business technologies can help drive a profitable
practice while maintaining quality of patient care. Despite a
discouraging reimbursement environment, opportunities for
additional education continue to grow. And why is this important?
One reason is, as John Latsko noted, "The visionary and creative in
O&P will survive."
A new educational opportunity is detailed in the article "College-Level
Courses Coming to the O&P Community" excusively online.
Surfer Makes Comeback
After an up-close-and-personal encounter with a shark in which
she lost an arm, a teenage surfer not only survived but also made
an amazing comeback in the sport she loves. You'll enjoy Bethany
Hamilton's inspiring story in "Today's
Consumer". 
Table Of Contents - September 2004
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