Board certified clinical specialties

[_FNG_]

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I'm wondering what everyone's opinions and experiences are regarding this topic. Things that might be helpful to include would be depth of practice, salary reimbursement, length of training, how difficult was it to get into the program, and overall would you recommend it to a new grad. Also, it would help if you put what field it's in.

Thanks for the help.

 

[PT2MD]

I'm wondering what everyone's opinions and experiences are regarding this topic. Things that might be helpful to include would be depth of practice, salary reimbursement, length of training, how difficult was it to get into the program, and overall would you recommend it to a new grad. Also, it would help if you put what field it's in.

Thanks for the help.

I took and passed my orthopedic exam in 2006 year after four years of practice. It was one tough exam, but well worth it. You get a lot out of preparing for the exam and feel a tremendous sense of satisfaction and pride when you find out you passed. I had a few friends who really struggled with the pediatric exam and said it was also very tough.

If I remember correctly, they recommend 1-2 years of practice in that specific setting before sitting for the exam. It doesn't currently affect reimbursement, however I think that would be a very good initiative to reward board certification. I would definitely recommend working towards certification if you are a new grad, particularly if you know you will remain in a given setting.

Best of luck to you.

 

[_FNG_]

So what do you think about these residencies that prepare you for taking these tests?? Do you think that have an OCS, NCS, PCS... is something that will increase your earning potential? Also, if you wanted to open your own clinic one day do you think having an OCS would help your referral base?

A lot of questions but I hope somebody will help a fella out.

 

[PT2MD]

So what do you think about these residencies that prepare you for taking these tests?? Do you think that have an OCS, NCS, PCS... is something that will increase your earning potential? Also, if you wanted to open your own clinic one day do you think having an OCS would help your referral base?

A lot of questions but I hope somebody will help a fella out.

The OCS definitely helps in terms of salary and negotiating leverage for a job. It may seem silly that it would on some level, but it really does make a difference. I simply studied for the exam independently and took it without having a specific study guide. It was a little scary and a residency program might have helped with some apprehension. Other than that, I can't see the distinct advantage to pursuing a residency prior to taking the exam for the OCS.

The OCS has definitely helped my referral base, but I had to educate referral sources as to what it is. No one outside the APTA has a clue about our board-certification. I tell them I am the only therapist board certified in orthopedic rehabilitation in my area and "This is all I do" and that sometimes helps. It's a selling point really. Having the OCS doesn't make be a better PT, but it helps me market my skills a little more strongly.

 

[Bad0 Fish0]

does anyone on here know anything about board certifications that would help you get a job in the NICU? i have an interest in working in this area, but jobs like that are just so hard to come by! anyone know anybody who worked strictly in the NICU? obviously being pediatric certified is the starting point. what about burn units? any input is greatly appreciated.

 

[PT2MD]

does anyone on here know anything about board certifications that would help you get a job in the NICU? i have an interest in working in this area, but jobs like that are just so hard to come by! anyone know anybody who worked strictly in the NICU? obviously being pediatric certified is the starting point. what about burn units? any input is greatly appreciated.

I can't be sure about peds jobs, but the best way to get a specific job out of school is to rotate there. A ton of clinics and hospitals hire students finishing their last rotation.

Getting certified only happens after you've been practicing a few years in a specific setting. I forget the specific criteria, but I believe I had to have at least 1-2 years of experience before they would allow me to sit for my OCS. So you get experience first, then you work on your certification. Once you get your pediatric certification, you will be very marketable in a variety of pediatric settings.

My recommendation would be to research NICUs in the area you'd like to work and talk with your schools ACCE about making that your last rotation. This will put you in a good position to have a 6+ week test drive of the facility and see if you are a good fit. That's the best strategy I can recommend and it often works out well. Good luck!