Shriners Children’s Pediatric Orthotics and Prosthetic Services (POPS) is a specialized program dedicated to designing, fitting, and manufacturing custom orthotics and prosthetics for children, from infants to young adults. The focus is on supporting children with limb deficiencies or bracing needs, enabling them to pursue their interests—whether sports, music, or everyday activities—with confidence and independence
Key Features of POPS
- Child-Centered Customization: Devices such as shoe inserts, braces, and artificial limbs are tailored not only for medical needs but also for personal expression. Children can choose colors, patterns, and themes (e.g., sports teams, cartoon characters, camouflage), making their devices uniquely theirs and boosting self-esteem.
- Advanced Technology: POPS uses state-of-the-art fabrication labs and the latest materials and computer-assisted design (CAD) technology to create individualized devices. The aim is to keep up with technological advancements so children can achieve their goals, from athletics to the arts.
- Continuity of Care: POPS provides ongoing care as children grow, ensuring that devices are adapted to their evolving needs, and fostering long-term relationships between families and care teams.
Public Awareness
Shriners Children’s employs a robust, emotionally resonant marketing strategy to promote POPS and its broader mission:
- Storytelling Through Real Patients: The award-winning “Watch Me” campaign showcases real patients, not actors, highlighting their achievements and the life-changing impact of Shriners Children’s care. These stories emphasize resilience and the ability to “just be kids,” regardless of medical challenges.
- Recognition and Awards: The “Watch Me” campaign has earned regional Emmy® awards, underscoring the effectiveness of sharing authentic patient stories and the expertise of the marketing team.
- Community Integration: With new freestanding POPS locations, such as the facility in Tampa, Shriners Children’s expands access and visibility, accepting referrals from outside providers and serving the broader community.
POPS in Action
The impact of POPS is best illustrated through patient stories. For example, Grace, a patient ambassador born without hands or feet, has received over 15 sets of prosthetic legs from POPS. These devices have enabled her to enjoy biking, swimming, and other activities, exemplifying the program’s ability to foster independence and joy in children’s lives.
Conclusion
Shriners Children’s POPS stands out for its patient-centered, technologically advanced approach to pediatric orthotics and prosthetics, coupled with a marketing strategy that authentically communicates its mission and impact through real stories and comprehensive outreach. This not only enhances patient acquisition but also builds lasting trust and recognition in the communities it serves.
- https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/pediatric-care/pediatric-orthotic-and-prosthetic-services
- https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/news-and-media/news/2020/10/pops-stands-for-more-than-pediatric-orthotic-and-prosthetic-services
- https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/news-and-media/videos/2024/05/orthotics-and-prosthetics-fabrication
- https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/news-and-media/news/2022/11/emmy-awards
- https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/news-and-media/news/2023/10/pops-tampa