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The majority of CMFs are women. Some CMFs are breast cancer survivors and prosthesis wearers as well. CMFs share a common goal in helping women receive the best look and fit from their postmastectomy bras and prostheses.

The first thing you will want to do is to attend a manufacturer's entry-level fitter training program (sometimes called fit classes). Amoena offers an Introductory Fit Specialist Educational Course at multiple locations across the U.S. This opportunity is available primarily for Amoena retailers and their employees. The Amoena Introductory Course has been approved by ABCOP as an official entry-level education program for the Certified Fitter-Mastectomy certification (CFM) and by BOC as an official entry-level education program that will qualify one to sit for the BOC Certified Mastectomy Fitter (CMF) examination. Fitters who currently hold certification through BOC will earn 8 CEUs for attending this fit class; if you are currently registered with ABCOP, please contact them so that they can advise you on what you will receive for this course: www.abcop.org or Brooke Smith, 703-836-7114.

Amoena post mastectomy Fit Specialist training increases your confidence, credentials, and credibility. You will learn how to match product with surgery type, gain practical hands-on fitting experience, and master key fitting techniques that inspire the customer‘s confidence. The Introductory course provides training in basic anatomy and prepares you to recognize different types of mastectomy surgeries. You will learn which Amoena product complements each surgery type, how to fit bras correctly and how to recognize a poor fit. The importance of a correctly fitted bra and prosthesis will be explained. You will be able to practice on live models and demonstrate your fitting ability prior to receiving a certificate of course completion.

Introduced in fall 2009, the Advanced Course covers some of the more complicated issues that a Certified Fit Specialist is faced with today. Learn fitting techniques for lumpectomies; reconstruction; larger cup and/or band sizes; and other hard-to-fit situations. Participants will also learn about lymphedema; the latest surgeries and most up-to-date treatments; discuss medical detailing and experience how a patient is navigated through a hospital. A certification by BOC or ABCOP is required to attend the Advanced Course. Fit Specialists who are certified will earn 8 BOC and 7.5 ABCOP CEUs for attending.