BOC’s new microcredential addresses growing demand for compression garments

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) has launched a new microcredential for a Certified Lymphedema Compression Fitter (CLCF).

The organization says this microcredential validates specialized knowledge in fitting medical compression garments for lymphedema and related conditions.

“For more than 40 years, BOC has advanced quality patient care through trusted credentialing,” said Judi Knott, president and CEO of BOC. “The CLCF reinforces the organization’s commitment to advancing the quality of patient care and expanding opportunities for professionals to enhance specialized skills. As patient conditions create demand and access to medical compression garments expands, it is essential that providers can demonstrate compliance and competency in proper fitting to support optimal patient outcomes.”

BOC says it developed the credential through a rigorous process that reflects current industry needs and standards, incorporates a psychometric approach to defining criteria and draws on extensive input from highly respected subject-matter experts.

The organization says the CLCF addresses a growing patient need tied to expanded access to medical compression garments under the Lymphedema Treatment Act of 2024. BOC also says the credential also addresses demographic and health trends, including an aging population and increasing rates of chronic conditions.

Eligible CLCF candidates must hold an active credential in a relevant health care field and complete approved compression garment training prior to taking the online examination. Education completed for an applicant’s current credential may satisfy CLCF educational requirements and will be evaluated during the application process. Examples of credentials that satisfy the active credential prerequisite include, but are not limited to:

• BOC Certified Orthotic Fitters (COF)
• BOC Certified Mastectomy Fitters (CMF)
• BOC Certified DME Specialists (CDME)
• BOC Certified Orthotists (BOCO)
• BOC Certified Pedorthists (BOCPD)
• BOC Certified Prosthetists (BOCP)
• Nurses (RN, LPN), Nurse Practitioners (NP)
• Physical or Occupational Therapists (PT, OT)
• Certified Lymphedema Therapists (CLT)
• Orthotists, Prosthetists, and Pedorthists
• Physician Assistants and Physicians (PA, MD, DO)
• Athletic Trainers
• Licensed Massage Therapists (LMT)
• Medical Assistants

For more information about the Certified Lymphedema Compression Fitter microcredential, visit www.bocusa.org/certification/clcf.