CO Ethics & Professional Standards 5

Question 1

An orthotist is asked to provide a written testimonial for a legal case involving a patient they currently treat. The most significant ethical concern is:

Accepted Answer

Potential conflict of interest between advocacy and objective clinical testimony

Answer

Serving as an advocate for a current patient in legal proceedings can compromise the objectivity required of expert witnesses.

Question 2

Which behavior exemplifies the ethical standard of professional integrity in orthotics practice?

Accepted Answer

Accurately documenting all clinical findings even when unfavorable

Answer

Accurate documentation regardless of how it affects reimbursement or perception exemplifies professional integrity.

Question 3

A patient with cognitive impairment cannot provide informed consent. The orthotist should:

Accepted Answer

Obtain consent from the legally designated surrogate decision-maker

Answer

When patients lack decision-making capacity, a legally authorized surrogate must provide consent for treatment.

Question 4

An orthotist notices a pattern of unnecessary referrals from a physician who receives a fee-sharing arrangement. This is prohibited under:

Accepted Answer

The Stark Law and Anti-Kickback Statute

Answer

The Stark Law prohibits physician self-referrals for financial gain, and the Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits fee-sharing arrangements that influence referrals.

Question 5

An orthotist disagrees with a prescription written by a physician but proceeds without discussion to avoid conflict. This approach fails which ethical standard?

Accepted Answer

Advocacy and interprofessional communication for patient benefit

Answer

Orthotists have an ethical duty to advocate for patients by communicating clinical concerns to referring providers rather than ignoring them.

(CO) Certified Orthoptist Practice Test

(CO) Certified Orthoptist Practice Test

CO Ethics & Professional Standards 5