NCCPA Credential Process 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the exam required for a new Physician Assistant (PA) to become certified?
- PAEA
- PANCE (Correct answer)
- MPJE
- MCAT
Correct answer: PANCE
The Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) is the national board certification examination required for all Physician Assistants (PAs) to become certified in the United States. Administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), successful completion of PANCE is a prerequisite for licensure in most states. The other options are not the correct certification exam for PAs.
Question 2: How long is the PANCE exam?
- 3 hours
- 4 hours (Correct answer)
- 5 hours
- 6 hours
Correct answer: 4 hours
The PANCE exam is structured into five 60-minute blocks, with a total of 300 multiple-choice questions. Including breaks, the entire examination typically lasts for four hours. This duration allows candidates sufficient time to complete all sections of the comprehensive exam.
Question 3: When can a Physician Assistant take the PANCE exam?
- Immediately after graduating from an accredited PA program (Correct answer)
- After completing one year of clinical practice
- After completing two years of clinical practice
- After obtaining a state license
Correct answer: Immediately after graduating from an accredited PA program
Physician Assistants are eligible to take the PANCE exam immediately after graduating from an accredited PA program. Candidates can register for the exam and take it shortly after receiving their degree, allowing them to pursue state licensure and begin practicing without significant delay. There is no requirement for prior clinical practice or state licensure before taking PANCE.
Question 4: How often must a Physician Assistant renew their certification through Maintenance of Certification (MOC)?
- Every 1 year
- Every 2 years
- Every 6 years (Correct answer)
- Every 10 years
Correct answer: Every 6 years
Physician Assistants must renew their certification through the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) process every six years. This cycle ensures that PAs regularly demonstrate ongoing competency and stay current with medical knowledge and practice. The MOC process includes requirements for continuing medical education and a recertification exam.
Question 5: What is a key component of the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for Physician Assistants?
- Retaking the PANCE exam
- Completing at least 100 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) (Correct answer)
- Submitting a portfolio of clinical cases
- Completing a written thesis
Correct answer: Completing at least 100 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME)
A key component of the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) for Physician Assistants is the completion of Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours. PAs are required to complete at least 100 hours of CME every two years, including a certain number of Category 1 CME hours, to maintain their certification. This ensures PAs stay updated with current medical knowledge and practices.
NCCPA Credential Process 1
What is the exam required for a new Physician Assistant (PA) to become certified?