Inaugural Orthotics and Prosthetics Class’ First ‘Patient’

The inaugural class of the new Orthotics and Prosthetics (O&P) program at Salus University recently had its first patient experience in a didactic setting. And, its relevance wasn’t lost on the students. 

“The cohort was focusing on the subjective part of the interview process with the patient, so we were able to ask her questions about her injury, her previous medical history and start the conversation about how we would approach a treatment plan,” said Casey Evans ‘25OP. “Having a patient here in person and being able to communicate with her was super-important. It solidifies everything we’ve learned up until this point, giving us a chance to focus on the hands-on experience versus just hearing about it in lectures.”

Evans, who hails from Harleysville, Pennsylvania, and completed her undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from West Chester University, said the face-to-face experience with a patient was a great “first” for the inaugural O&P class. This experience is the first of “firsts” as the inaugural cohort progresses through their didactic year.

The “patient” for the class was Janet Gildner from Hatboro, Pennsylvania. She lost her left leg due to a trauma accident more than 20 years ago. She volunteered to speak to the students because she wanted them to understand that for amputees, each situation is different. 

“Then they can really try to understand where the patient is coming from. It’s not just about the prosthesis, it’s about the person,” said Gildner. 

Gildner, who has a long relationship with Salus O&P instructor Julie Quinlan, MPO, MS, CPO, ATC, was happy to help out when asked her to share her experiences with students.

“I was really excited to do this. I think the world of my prosthetist, Julie, and I knew that this was the inaugural class,” said Gildner. “I was very nervous. That’s my personality type and it’s part of who I am. But it doesn’t stop me from doing something that actually is very meaningful and that helps me. It helps give meaning and purpose to my situation.”

Quinlan invited Gildner because of her authenticity and because she could relate her experiences to the students and what they may experience in the future. And, from what Quinlan observed during the interaction, the session accomplished its goals. 

“Janet eloquently related her message to the students. She’s had both good and bad experiences in the field of prosthetics and I think communicating the differences is a unique opportunity for the students,” said Quinlan. “The students were engaged and enthralled. I think it was really impactful for them.”

Evans agreed. “For the program itself, it’s all new. For those of us who are learning, it’s all new. To have the chance to slowly piece everything together is an exciting opportunity for us,” she said.