1. (1) A licensed therapeutic shoe fitter is a health care professional who is specifically educated and trained to provide non-custom therapeutic shoes and non-custom multi-density inserts. This includes patient assessment, formulation of a plan, implementation of the treatment plan, follow-up, and practice management which is consistent with nationally recognized programs accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

   1. (a) Assessment of specific prescription or patient’s needs for therapeutic shoes as it relates to or includes, but is not limited to, the evaluation of the following:

      1. 1. physical assessment
      2. 2. circulation
      3. 3. skin integrity
      4. 4. protective sensation
      5. 5. pain
      6. 6. therapeutic shoe requirements
      7. 7. environmental barriers including social, home, and work reintegration

   2. (b) Formulation of a treatment plan based upon an assessment to alleviate limitations and enhance function. The therapeutic shoe fitter’s practice includes, but is not limited to:

      1. 1. verification of prescription/documentation
      2. 2. analysis of shoe construction needs and design requirements
      3. 3. consultation with and/or referral to other health care professionals

   3. (c) Implementation of the therapeutic shoe fitter’s treatment plan includes, but is not limited to:

      1. 1. measuring patient for shoes
      2. 2. material selection
      3. 3. shoe fitter evaluation
      4. 4. minor adjustments to accommodate individual anatomic contours
      5. 5. patient education and instruction

   4. (d) Utilization of a follow-up treatment plan that ensures successful outcomes, patient health and quality of life which includes, but is not limited to:

      1. 1. documentation of functional changes
      2. 2. minor adjustments to the fit of the shoe to ensure successful outcomes
      3. 3. confirmation of patient education and instruction

   5. (e) Compliance with practice management plans to develop and document policies and procedures to ensure patient well being which includes, but is not limited to:

      1. 1. adherence to applicable local, state and federal laws and regulations
      2. 2. following patient care guidelines and procedures
      3. 3. maintaining a safe and professional environment for patient care
      4. 4. understanding claims development and submission

   6. (f) Promotion of competency and enhancement of professional practice to contribute to the profession’s body of knowledge includes, but is not limited to, participation in:

      1. 1. continuing education
      2. 2. promotion of public awareness of the profession
      3. 3. consumer organizations, governmental and non-governmental organizations

   The practice of a licensed therapeutic shoe fitter includes, but is not limited to:

Author: Glenn Crumpton

Statutory Authority: Code of Ala. 1975, §34-25A-1-14, 34-25A-3(6), 34-25A-7, 34-25A-12.

History: New Rule: Filed November 7, 2013; effective December 12, 2013.