A full program of clinics and seminars dealing with a wide variety of orthotic and prosthetic topics welcomed practitioners attending the annual fall gathering of the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) held in Chicago, last fall. On hand from our office for the educational and networking event were Tony Plattner, CO; Don Pierson, C. Ped., and office administrator Barbara Plattner.

The Wednesday through Saturday gathering at Chicago's Hyatt Regency Hotel offered multiple options in clinical, technical, and business topics. Clinical sessions were presented with the assistance of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists. Highlights included discussions on scoliosis management, gait and pathomechanics, upper and lower limb myoelectric prosthetics, and geriatric dysvascular/diabetic issues. In keeping with the meeting's theme of "Riding the Winds of Change," guests heard keynote speaker Jeffrey Bauer, Ph.D., a noted futurist and economist, discuss how the changing health care market will affect O&P.

In addition, there were numerous technical sessions on various aspects of fabrication, plus an exhibit hall showcasing the products and services of more than 300 companies. Business sessions ranged from O&P networks to using Internet resources, and Medicare managed care. A Town Hall Meeting and several receptions allowed participants from across the country to get acquainted and exchange ideas.