The practice of orthotics and prosthetics in the State of Illinois is an allied health profession with educational standards established by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. The practice of pedorthics in the State of Illinois is an allied health profession with educational standards established by the National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education. The increasing population of elderly and physically challenged individuals who need orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic services requires that the orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professions be regulated to ensure the provision of high-quality services and devices. The people of Illinois deserve the best care available, and will benefit from the assurance of initial and ongoing professional competence of the orthotists, prosthetists, and pedorthists practicing in this State. The practice of orthotics, prosthetics, and pedorthics serves to improve and enhance the lives of individuals with disabilities by enabling them to resume productive lives following serious illness, injury, or trauma. Unregulated dispensing of orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic care does not adequately meet the needs or serve the interests of the public. In keeping with State requirements imposed on similar health disciplines, licensure of the orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professions will help ensure the health and safety of consumers, as well as maximize their functional abilities and productivity levels. This Act shall be liberally construed to best carry out these subjects and purposes.