Orthotists and Prosthetists

Other tasks remain mostly manual or use simple software. Patient records are kept in electronic health systems, and AI voice‐to‐text tools (like Dragon) are being tried by doctors to draft notes ^[1], but general charts and coding still need human entry. Core care tasks still rely on people: O*NET lists fitting and fine-tuning devices and teaching patients as the top job duties ^[3], and studies note that virtual tools can’t capture the nuances of an in-person fitting ^[1].

In fact, O*NET rates this job only ~14% automated ^[3]. Publishing research or learning new methods (15% and 10% automation potential) involve critical thinking and communication, so they remain in human hands. In short, technology like CAD and EHRs augments orthotists’ work on design and data, but the hands-on, personal parts of the job still need skilled professionals ^{[1] [3]}.

On the other hand, there are reasons adoption could grow. Clinicians who use digital tech report benefits: 77% said it improved patient outcomes during COVID-era care ^[1]. AI and software can save time on routine work (like drafting notes or prototyping designs), letting specialists focus on patients.

As these tools prove they help people, more clinics may buy them. In short, AI will likely augment this career – for instance by speeding up design or records – rather than replace orthotists. Human skills like empathy, hands-on adjustment, and patient teaching stay essential, so experts say orthotists should stay open to new tools while knowing their irreplaceable role ^{[1] [1]}.