CFO Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CFO facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. How do CFO professionals integrate compliance into daily practice? → By embedding compliance requirements into standard operating procedures
2. A CFO is asked by an employer to fit an orthotic for a diagnosis that appears outside their competency. The appropriate response is to: → Decline and refer the patient to a practitioner with appropriate expertise
3. What is the role of ligaments in the musculoskeletal system? → To connect bones to bones and provide joint stability.
4. Which standardized outcome measure is commonly used to assess functional improvement in patients fitted with foot orthotics for plantar fasciitis? → Foot Function Index (FFI)
5. The term 'professional liability' in orthotic practice refers to: → Legal responsibility for harm caused by negligent or incompetent practice
6. Which ligament primarily prevents excessive eversion of the subtalar joint? → Deltoid ligament
7. A patient post-CVA has equinovarus foot drop. An AFO is prescribed. Which design best addresses both foot drop and the varus component? → Solid AFO with lateral trim lines extended to control varus
8. What is the primary purpose of documenting baseline functional status before initiating orthotic therapy? → To establish a reference point for measuring treatment effectiveness over time
9. Which approach is MOST consistent with a 'lean' quality improvement philosophy in an orthotic clinic? → Eliminating steps in the fitting process that add no value for the patient
10. When assessing range of motion for a patient requiring a knee orthosis, the fitter notes a 10° knee flexion contracture. How should this be documented? → Extension limited to −10° (10° flexion contracture)
11. A CFO suspects a pediatric patient may be experiencing abuse at home based on observed bruising patterns inconsistent with the orthotic. The CFO must: → Report the suspicion to the appropriate child protective authority as mandated
12. Why is it important to evaluate a patient's gait? → To assess abnormalities that may require correction with orthotics.
13. Which entity audits Medicare DME suppliers and can demand repayment for improperly billed orthotic claims? → Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC)
14. An extrinsic forefoot post on a functional foot orthosis is placed: → Beneath the shell in the forefoot region
15. The Hawthorne effect in orthotic research refers to the phenomenon where: → Participants improve outcomes simply because they know they are being observed
16. The National Supplier Clearinghouse (NSC) is responsible for which function related to orthotic practice? → Enrolling DMEPOS suppliers in Medicare
17. Which type of bias occurs when study participants who drop out differ systematically from those who complete the trial? → Attrition bias
18. What materials are commonly used in the fabrication of orthotic devices? → Thermoplastics, carbon fiber, and metals.
19. Under ABCOP standards, how often must a CFO renew their certification? → Every 2 years
20. Under Medicare, what documentation is required in a patient's chart to support billing for a custom ankle-foot orthosis (AFO)? → Detailed written order, diagnosis, and clinical notes justifying medical necessity
21. Which action best demonstrates a proactive quality control approach in orthotic practice? → Conducting routine audits of fitting records before problems are reported
22. An orthotics supplier is cited by CMS for failing to maintain required documentation for a Medicare audit. Which of the following is a potential consequence? → Exclusion from Medicare and Medicaid programs
23. Which data source provides the MOST objective measure of orthotic device quality during the fabrication or dispensing process? → Direct measurement of device dimensions against the prescription specifications
24. Which of the following represents a systemic (facility-level) risk mitigation strategy rather than a patient-level one? → Establishing a standardized written protocol for high-risk patient identification
25. What is the primary purpose of the metatarsal bar in orthotic device design related to gait biomechanics? → Transfer weight-bearing stress proximal to the metatarsal heads
26. A patient reports new numbness in their toes after wearing a foot orthosis for two days. What is the most appropriate first action? → Remove the device and inspect for pressure points
27. Which software feature in orthotic design programs allows the clinician to virtually add a metatarsal pad to a digital foot model before milling? → Parametric modification
28. A pediatric patient is being fitted for a supramalleolar orthosis (SMO). Which developmental risk factor is most relevant? → Rapid growth requiring frequent device reassessment
29. For Medicare Durable Medical Equipment (DME) billing, which form is used to submit professional claims for orthotic devices? → CMS-1500
30. In orthotic CAD software, 'Boolean union' of two shapes would produce what result? → A single merged shape combining both volumes