Feature
The O&P EDGE 2013 Salary Survey
By Laura Fonda Hochnadel
"Paying people fairly is good for business," writes Bill Coleman, a Salary.com contributing writer. " Underpay, and employees will eventually look for a better offer. Overpay, and the payroll budget and profitability will suffer." ( www.salary.co...
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Feature
Patient Satisfaction Surveys: Using the Data
By Maria St. Louis-Sanchez
Each year, O&P patients around the nationfill out thousands of patient satisfactionsurveys. Patient care facilities accreditedby the Centers for Medicare & MedicaidServices (CMS) are required to offer thesurveys, but the way the facilities treat t...
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Feature
RAC Audits and Delayed Reimbursements: Preparing Your Company for a Cash Flow Crisis
By Betta Ferrendelli
Many who work in the O&P profession believe it is not aquestion of if, but when, a facility will be the target of a RecoveryAudit Contractor (RAC) audit. Smaller, independentO&P firms with one to three facilities are especially vulnerablebecause t...
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Feature
The Dawn of Powered Lower-Limb Prostheses, Part 2
By Phil Stevens, MEd, CPO, FAAOP
Modern lower-limb prosthetic components can be broadly characterized by their power requirements. Mechanically passivedevices that require no external power are the most basic of these types of components. In addition, the profession now has acces...
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Feature
New Developments in O&P Medicare Claims and Other Matters
By Peter W. Thomas, JD, and Christina Hughes, JD, MPH
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services(CMS) continues to issue policy changes thatimpact O&P claims audits and other mattersof interest to O&P practitioners. CMS issued new limitson how many claims Recovery Audit Contractors (RACs)can seek t...
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Perspective
Hiring in Today’s O&P Environment
By Jena Baxter
I have been a recruiter for 14 years with the last four spent workingsolely with O&P private practices, manufacturers, and distributors.Recruiting in general is like riding a roller coaster with the up anddown market fluctuations also affecting hi...
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Society Spotlight
Thinking Inside the Box
By Jeffrey A. Nemeth, CPO, FAAOP
Business managers are aware of the constant need to improve and grow theircompanies' bottom line. In the O&P industry, it is particularlyimportant to stay abreast of changes and innovations and, wherepossible, to drive change and innovation in ord...
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Industry Leader
Joan Sanders, PhD: Linking Creative Thinking with Practical Application
By Miki Fairley
Joan E. Sanders, PhD, has been interested in science and mathematicsever since she was young. "I especially loved doing experiments,and when I was a child I was always building mechanicalthings," she recalls.
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Better Business
Preparing Your O&P Business for the Future
By Leslie Pitt Schneider, JD, RN
American singer-songwriter and lyricist Bob Dylan began singing"the times, they are a changin'" in 1964-and the times havecontinued to change. With today's O&P landscape being vastlydifferent from what it looked like five, ten, or 15 years ago, th...
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Stepping Out
Working with Physicians: Footwear Prescriptions
By Dennis Janisse, CPed
In this ever-changing environment ofthird-party billing, government regulations,and burdensome documentationrequirements, OP&P professionals areconstantly seeking out every last advantagewhen it comes to running an efficientpractice. Most OP&P pat...
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Shop Talk
How to Fabricate a Molded KAFO, Part I
By Louise Bensley, CTPO
Of all the various orthotic devices, I fabricate molded KAFOs mostoften. While each molded KAFO (MKAFO) is distinct becauseof patients' varying needs, the basic approach and many of thetechniques remain the same. The process begins when you receiv...
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Today’s Consumer
Georgia Foltz, a Former Nurse Continues an Active Life
By Judy Johnson Berna
Foltz with her grandsons, Austin and Alex Potter. Photograph courtesy of Jeremy Potter. Although she is now retired, in her early years of nursing, GeorgiaFoltz worked in a busy emergency room.
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O&Pedia
The Affordable Care Act
As with any other governmental program, acronyms are a given in the Affordable CareAct (ACA) healthcare legislation, and understanding the terms in the new legislation can take a backseat to daily concerns-even when it can impact your work. The la...
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Got FAQs?
Billing and Collections Q&A
By Lisa Lake-Salmon
Billing for O&P devices and care is complicated. Count on "Got FAQs?" to help ensure you are using the most current information when preparing your claims. This month's column answers your questions about addition codes for custom-fabricated ortho...
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Industry Review - Conferences
Notes from US ISPO
As O&P practitioners, a critical characteristicdefining success is the ability to movebeyond local and regional contexts andinteract with a broader range of people.This is why two of the main missions of theInternational Society for Prosthetics an...
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Industry Review - Conferences
2013 FAOP/FCAAOP Annual Scientific Symposium
The 2013 Annual Scientific Symposium of the Florida Association of Orthotists andProsthetists (FAOP)/Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Orthotists andProsthetists (FCAAOP) was heldJuly 18-20 at the Hyatt RegencyGrand Cypress, Orlando, Flor...
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Viewpoint
EDGE Quick Credit: It's Here!
By Tonja Randolph
We are excited to officially launch EDGE Quick Credit™with our first clients, Freedom Innovations, Irvine,California, and Össur Americas, Foothill Ranch,California, at the American Orthotic & ProstheticAssociation (AOPA) World Congress this month....
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EDGE Direct
Christin: The Ottobock C-Brace Has Changed My Life
EDGE Direct Christin: The Ottobock C-Brace Has Changed My Life Christin loves to be in motion. Travelling, working in the garden, walking with her dog, Lucy-and getting to out-of-the-way places to fulfill her passion for drawing. Christin has bee...
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Features include:
- Raised GripGel™ bands grip the socket wall to form a secure interface between the socket and liner to prevent slippage or premature release.
- Low modulus GripGel bands stretch against the socket wall, while the inner wall conforms easily to the residual limb to ensure there is no blood-flow restriction or stiffening to inhibit donning.
- Full-length inversion for ease of donning.
- High-performance, knitted fabric cover.
ALPS
800.574.5426
www.easyliner.com
Go Anywhere. Do Anything.
Increasingly, many amputees desire a prosthetic foot
that can keep up with their busy lifestyle. Whether
they're at the office or the gym, they want the
convenience of using a single foot throughout the
day. By combining smooth rollover and dynamics
with vertical and rotational shock absorption, the
Vari-Flex® XC Rotate™ offers the flexibility that
these active individuals require to pursue a life
without limitations. Call or visit the Össur
website to learn more.
Össur
800.233.6263
www.ossur.com
Coyote Composite is an ideal replacement for braided carbon
fiber in prosthetic and orthotic laminations. It's made from
basalt (volcanic rock), which is tougher and more flexible than
carbon for more comfort in prosthetic sockets and orthotic
bracing. The inert nature of this material
has less inhalant risk and causes less
irritation to the skin than alternatives.
Features include:
- Extreme durability.
- Tougher than fiberglass.
- Safer, with less itch than carbon.
- Easy to use for rigid or flexible layups.
- Can be used with traditional or flexible resins.
Coyote Design
800.819.5980
www.coyotedesign.com
The AIRPUCK™ system is a cost-effective vacuum reservoir that can maintain negative pressure within the prosthetic socket for extended periods of time (6-10 hours). The AIRPUCK system completely seals the distal aspect of the socket, allowing users to open the valve and remove air in the socket to achieve vacuum suspension. The vacuum barb is neatly concealed in the valve housing. Blister pull fabrication makes an air-tight socket a breeze. No hoses, barbs, or ports to contend with. The AIRPUCK is a self-sealing, modular, drop-in vacuum component. Patent pending.
5280 PROSTHETICS LLC
800.460.0288
www.5280prosthetics.com
The medial Arch Suspender is
an innovation that provides an
adjustable lifting strap under the
talonavicular joint to resist collapse
of the medial arch and ankle and
hindfoot eversion. This modification
is indicated for severe PTTD and
severe pronation disorders of the hindfoot.
The lateral Arch Suspender resists ankle or hindfoot inversion.
Indications include peroneal tendinopathy and varus deformity of
the ankle and rearfoot.
Casting methods and tips are available on our website. Certified
pedorthists are available to answer questions regarding Richie
products.
Hersco Ortho Labs
800.301.8275
www.hersco.com
Ability Dynamics is a medical-device company created with a passion for helping amputees through the utilization of advanced technology.
Our state-of-the-art Rush Foot™ uses Flexeon™, a specially formulated, reinforced fiber-composite material that is nearly indestructible and three times more flexible than carbon fiber. This translates into fewer repairs, maintenance, and warranty claims.
Our full rocker sole is designed for the needs of above the knee amputees. The half rocker sole is designed for the needs of below the knee amputees. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rushfoot
Ability Dynamics
855.450.7300
www.abilitydynamics.com
A soft silicone ring creates an airtight seal, an alternative to suspension sleeves.
Evolution Industries Inc.
888.839.6213
www.evoii.com
The Easy Off Lock is Coyote's latest
dual-suspension lock system. This
lock stays airtight, which helps
create suction in the socket. The
advantage of this lock is that it can
be used with elevated vacuum. Its
unique lever design also helps make
doffing of the socket easy, especially for amputees with hand-strength
issues, arthritis, or trouble reaching the release button.
Features include:
- Patented lever system for easy doffing.
- Water resistant.
- Can be used with elevated vacuum.
- Airtight suction suspension if not used with vacuum.
- Easy engagement.
Coyote Design
800.819.5980
www.coyotedesign.com
The new Corflex XR Cubital Tunnel Splint positions the elbow at a 122° angle, offering support as well as immobilization, while reducing pain and numbness associated with cubital tunnel syndrome. Manufactured from ultra-rigid ABS material, the Corflex XR Cubital Tunnel Splint has a medically contoured shell and a replaceable, plush cloth liner. Available in three sizes, S/M, M/LG, and LG/XL, the Corflex XR Cubital Tunnel Splint is ideal for treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome or other post-op/post-cast removal applications.
PEL Supply Company
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
The guide provides information about:
- Terms to know.
- Types of audits.
- Planning ahead.
- The RAC audit process.
- And more!
Ask your Endolite territory
manager about getting your
guide today.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
A perfect fit.
When patients want a high-definition cosmetic
prosthesis with a realistic appearance that
brings them confidence, pride, comfort, and
reliability to enjoy their daily lives, Regal is the
answer. The Regal High Definition Silicone
Cosmetic Prosthesis offers increased product
longevity and durability, increased flexibility
for donning and doffing, and greater stain
resistance than PVC products.
Fillauer LLC
800.251.6398
www.fillauer.com
ABC certification exams—ready when you are!
- All written and written simulation exams offered every other month.
- Clinical patient management exams will be offered three times a year.
- Practitioner candidates have 30 days after the application deadline to complete their residency requirements.
Visit the ABC website for more information about exam dates and application deadlines.
American Board for Certification/ABC
703.836.7114
www.abcop.org
Available on all Custom Origin Liners for greater freedom of movement.
Evolution Industries Inc.
888.839.6213
www.evoii.com
The new DuraWalk™ foot from
WillowWood is an advanced
low-activity foot, available in a
modern design usually reserved
for feet made for higher activity
levels. Utilizing a highly flexible
toe spring, which allows for a
smooth gait cycle, the integrated design of the toe pad, urethane
heel, and foot shell provide multiaxial function for increased
patient stability on uneven terrain.
Suitable for transtibial and transfemoral amputees, the
DuraWalk foot is available in three shades-buff, tan, or medium
brown-and carries a patient weight limit of 350 lb. or 160kg.
PEL Supply Company
800.321.1264
www.pelsupply.com
By integrating high-performance processing
capabilities and a cutting-edge hydraulic
system, the Plié® 2.0 is the most responsive
MPC knee ever developed. Rapid reaction to
changes in gait allows users to stay in stance
phase longer, take small steps in confined
spaces, and change walking speeds more
fluidly. The result is a knee that provides
increased stability and safety from falls
while performing naturally and comfortably.
The Plié 2.0 is quickly and easily programmed using a software
wizard. And as the first water-resistant microprocessor knee with
a replaceable battery and a line of designer fairings, the Plié 2.0
offers a full range of benefits for both the clinician and end user.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
medi is proud to announce a new addition
to the innovative Panthera family of feet:
the Panthera CF II-adaptable to the individual
needs of the K3 or K4 amputee.
Features and benefits include:
- Finely adjustable heel and forefoot resistance via trimmable elastomer inserts.
- medi Torsion Flex Control provides multiaxial compliance via integrated elastomer layers.
- Early plantar contact for increased stability.
- Vertical shock absorption provides greater comfort.
- Fluid rollover and dynamic toe-off due to the continuous carbon spring.
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
College Park Industries has increased its offerings to include a line of commonly used endoskeletal components. Utilizing knowledge from 25 years of material research and product design, these endo components are carefully engineered for structural integrity and noise abatement. Tested to the highest quality standards, the endo components perfectly complement the performance and outcomes that College Park prosthetic feet are known for.
College Park Industries
800.728.7950
www.college-park.com
Texas Assistive Devices (TAD) has
introduced the N-Abler® III WHO
Soft Brace with Quick Disconnect
Palmer Unit to allow patients with
partial-hand amputation or hand
dysfunction to independently perform
activities such as eating, meal
preparation, grooming, hobby or mechanical work, carpentry,
and sports. The N-Abler system uses patented couplers for flexion
and positional rotation to attach the tools and utensils, with
componentry available for bilateral patients, too. The WHO Soft
Brace comes in four sizes and for right or left use.
Demonstration kits are available.
Contact us for more information, including L-Code
recommendations.
Texas Assistive Devices
800.532.6840
www.n-abler.org
Another K2 Innovation from Nabtesco Proteor-USA.
This compact single-axis locking knee has a unique anterior release lever. The 1M10-P6
lock release is highly user friendly and a good choice for patients with hand dexterity issues or anyone in a rehab situation. A simple downward push releases the lock.
Features and benefits include:
- Rated up to 275 lb.
- 130° flexion angle.
- 34mm distal tube holder.
- The choice of a pyramidal or 4-hole plate as the proximal connector offers 15° of rotation.
- Anterior release lever.
- A reassuring sound signals that the knee is locked out.
Nabtesco Proteor-USA
855.517.4414
www.nabtescoproteor-usa.com
Hersco has a new line of Tri Lam
custom foot orthotics with several
material choices. Tri Lam technology
layers materials of different
durometers, giving the practitioner
the ability to vary thickness and shock
absorption. Hersco Tri Lams include
Plastazote and PPT for accommodative
devices, or more durable Sky for
active patients. You can also choose the base layer of firmer cork
or softer EVA.
More information and pictures are available on our website.
Certified pedorthists are ready to answer any questions you may
have regarding our custom products.
Hersco Ortho Labs
800.301.8275
www.hersco.com
A new low-friction fabric technology dramatically reduces friction and
related shear forces between the skin
and prosthesis. GlideWear™ prosthetic
liner patches are indicated for amputees
who encounter irritation and skin
breakdown from prosthetic liner and
socket use. Simply position the patch
between the prosthetic liner and skin
each day for continuous protection.
Choose from two sizes. GlideWear
prosthetic liner patches are sold in a pack of two patches.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
Features include:
- The comfort of SoftKIT
- Fun covers just for kids!
- Cool, grey skulls
- Cute, pink hearts
- Available for Youth Sizes, S-XL
Allard USA
888.678.6548
www.allardusa.com
medi USA is proud to introduce
the SLEEQ® series of spinal bracing
solutions. The SLEEQ Spinal Therapy
System's InvisAdjust™ technology
enables a universal fit for nearly all
patients while dramatically reducing
the hassle and cost of unwanted
inventory. SLEEQ's state-of-the-art
TruGlide™ tightening makes it easy
to achieve optimal compression for the most effective pain
relief. The advanced eco-friendly Q-Lex™ OrthoSport Material
promotes air flow to keep patients cool and dry. The low-profile
ventilated AeroFlex™ support system automatically conforms
to the patient's anatomy for a custom fit, providing optimum
comfort and pain management or operative treatment support.
medi USA
800.633.6334
www.mediusa.com
Kinterra™ combines hydraulics and carbon-fiber technology to
provide K3 ambulators with 12° of motion and an exceptionally
normal walking gait-regardless of surface angle or speed. The
result is rock-solid stability and the confidence for users to choose
a new path.
Kinterra's articulating ankle provides:
- Improved stability and safety, especially on slopes and varied terrain.
- Reduced socket pressure for healthier residual limbs.
- Enhanced comfort while sitting or squatting.
- Increased ground contact and a more symmetrical gait.
See the Kinterra in action on our website.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
Come learn more about the BTK on
Wednesday, September 18, at the AOPA World
Congress in Orlando, Florida. Our training
workshop, Bartlett Tendon Knee (BTK):
Understanding the Unique Tendon Technology
in Amputee Sports Applications, will be
held from 8-10 a.m. ET.
Visit booth #513 for more information.
Fabtech Systems
800.322.8324
www.fabtechsystems.com
TRS has just introduced the Ishi
archery terminal device designed
to fit modern compound bows and
traditional-style bows. An offset
flexible aperture captures the bow's
handle which allows the bow to
cradle comfortably for perfect arrow
alignment. A ratchet strap and buckle
lightly secure the bow in place. The
Ishi weighs only 6 ounces, bows up
to 45 pounds of draw weight, and
is made for archers five years old and above. The Ishi mounts
right or left handed and has a USA standard threaded mounting
prosthetic connector.
TRS Inc.
800.279.1865
www.oandp.com/trs
The Compact Double Action Ankle Joint
(Model 725) is supplied fully assembled
and is designed specifically for use with
thermoplastics. The precontoured stainless steel
upright and stirrup reduces fabrication
time, while the low-profile and lightweight
design enhances the clinical application.
The Compact Double Action Ankle Joint,
intended for both small-adult and pediatric
patients, is designed to provide optimal
control in the sagittal plane and increase
mediolateral stability.
Becker Orthopedic
800.521.2192
www.beckerorthopedic.com
The Freedom DynAdapt™ foot is a
slim-profile, carbon-fiber foot system
with a slender, anatomic design for easy
fit and finish. Its multiaxial function
provides maximum comfort and the
uninterrupted strands of carbon fiber
in the full-length heel provide patients
with effortless rollover and a more
natural gait. The new EnduraCore™
Technology composite laminate delivers up to three times
the fatigue life of a standard laminate in a design that also
returns more energy. The result is a highly durable product that
preserves users' energy so they can do more with confidence.
Freedom Innovations
888.818.6777
www.freedom-innovations.com
The avalon foot provides 12° of controlled ankle motion, allowing the user to safely negotiate stairs, ramps, and environmental obstacles with increased confidence and security.
Benefits include:
- Dorsiflexes from midstance to toe off for a smooth rollover.
- Remains dorsiflexed through swing phase for improved toe clearance, to minimize the risk of falls.
- Provides a more natural gait; reduces the need to compensate by hip hiking, circumduction, or lifting the knee to clear the toe during swing phase.
- Biomimetic ankle motion encourages equal loading during ambulation, which leads to less stress and thereby preserves the sound side.
Endolite
800.548.3534
www.endolite.com
Positive feedback about our silicone liners
and our symmetrical profile made the
creation of an Alpha Silicone AK Liner
an easy decision. Our unique blend of
medical-grade silicone, vitamin E, and skin
conditioners yields a smooth, nongreasy, and
nontacky surface that is comfortable against
the skin.
Our symmetrical profile provides extra
protection to the distal femur and allows
the liner to be rotated for extended wear. The
profile allows the liner to retrofit with both the Alpha Hybrid AK
Liner and Alpha Classic AK Liner with symmetrical profiles.
WillowWood
800.848.4930
www.willowwoodco.com
Hummel Orthotics
is veteran owned and
operated. Our orthotic
devices are made by hand
to ensure exact fit and
function. Call or e-mail
us and let us show your
patients how a true custom
orthotic feels.
Hummel Orthotics
719.640.3069
www.hummelortho.com
TRS introduces the COBRA SB11
softball-throwing prosthetic sports
accessory and terminal device.
Following up on the success of
the revolutionary COBRA HB
baseball-throwing TD introduced
this year, the COBRA SB11 is
specifically designed for throwing
softballs with an 11-inch circumference.
The COBRA SB11 is completely adjustable for traditional
overhand throws or for tossing or pitching underhand
in fast-pitch or slow-pitch softball. The COBRA SB11 comes
in black, weighs 9.5 oz. (270g), and is 8 in. (20cm) long when
fully extended. A regulation softball and tuning instructions are
included.
TRS Inc.
800.279.1865
www.oandp.com/trs
A complete system for cost-effective
automation in facilities of all sizes.
Scan, modify, carve, and
thermoform. The cordless S1
Scanner allows fast, accurate 3D
shape capture with unmatched
ease of use and at low cost. Newly
released ProvelCAD modification
software is easy to use and
template based. The C7 Carver
is not only fast and precise, its self-contained dust collection
system is extremely quiet. The T7 Thermoformer, now with
IR sensing, consistently produces high-quality thermoplastic
sockets from industry-standard preforms. Compatible with
AOP, OBJ, and STL files.
Provel Inc.
509.857.2009
www.provel.us
Accepting Applications Now!
Begin your P&O career at NUPOC! Learn from leaders in the P&O profession! The NUPOC MPO is a 21-month graduate curriculum that prepares you to enter an accredited residency, sit for certification examinations, and become a P&O practitioner.
The online portion of the program includes live and streamed lectures, videoconference discussions, group projects, and case-study sessions that help you learn, apply, and review knowledge.
The on-campus practicum offers supervised opportunities to practice technical and clinical skills with patient models who have neuromusculoskeletal impairments.
Northwestern University Prosthetics-Orthotics Center
Feinberg School of Medicine
NUPOC
312.503.5700
www.nupoc.northwestern.edu
Tired of throwing away too
many nylon seconds? Try our
MasterCraft hosiery! Essential
to your O&P applications, from
laminations to pulling plastic,
these nylons will help make
fabrication easier. Made with first-quality
nylon, our open-toe nylons
reduce your throwaways! Available
in a 1-lb. box of approximately
80 nylons, or a 5-lb. box of
approximately 400 nylons.
Call for e-mail for more
information.
Comfort Products
800.822.7500
www.comfortoandp.com
The team at Limbguard™ understands the
impact of effective early care on building a
lasting relationship with patients.
Features and benefits include:
- Comfortably controls post-op edema.
- Eases wound management.
- Preserves knee range of motion.
- Fits both left and right with only four sizes.
- Has a new, flared proximal edge to avoid posterior thigh pressure.
Your company logo can now be added to our anterior neoprene
closure.
Limbguard is available from
Friddle's Orthopedic Appliances at
www.friddles.com.
Visit us at the O&P World Congress in Orlando at booth #701H.
Limbguard
800.528.9339
www.limbguard.info
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CONTACT US