The death of George Floyd, the protests, and the disproportionate impact COVID-19 is having on racial and ethnic minorities and the poor and socially disadvantaged among us has once again brought to the forefront the long-standing issue of systematic racism in this country.
The American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA) stands with our members in opposing systemic racism and believes it is time to meaningfully address the impacts it has on our society. Until we do, a large percentage of the patients AOPA members serve, those living with limb loss/difference and limb impairment in disadvantaged communities, will never be truly healthy.
Now more than ever, it is imperative to reflect on the values of the orthotics and prosthetics profession and its patients, to remember character is not only what we believe but what we do. As Martin Luther King, Jr. observed, “The ultimate tragedy is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people but the silence over that by the good people.”
Today, we reaffirm our values, beliefs, and commitments. We cannot solve these problems alone, but AOPA is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion with each other, our allied healthcare professionals, and in all patient interactions. AOPA is committed to health equity and to improving the health outcomes of our patient populations. AOPA stands united, ready to learn, grow, and work toward a better future.
About the American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association (AOPA): Through advocacy, research, and education, AOPA improves patient access to quality orthotic and prosthetic care. AOPA, based in Alexandria, VA, is the largest non-profit organization consisting of more than 2,000 O&P patient care facilities and suppliers, dedicated to helping O&P businesses and professionals navigate the multitude of issues surrounding the delivery of quality patient care.