Important Information on New Recertification Option from NCCPA

PAs now have a choice in how they meet their recertification requirement. NCCPA spent several years talking with PAs, researching principles of adult learning and knowledge retention, and investigating current trends in assessment. The Pilot Alternative to PANRE that was implemented in 2019-2020 was very well received by PAs, and data indicated that the process helped PAs identify and close knowledge gaps.

Throughout the Pilot, NCCPA gathered information from PAs on what worked well and changes they would recommend. All of this information helped to shape the framework for the new PANRE-Longitudinal Assessment, the official alternative to the test-center administered PANRE. With the PANRE-LA, PAs answer 25 questions per quarter online at their convenience, location, and using their own device. There are 12 available quarters, and the score is based on a PA’s best 8 quarters. The new PANRE-LA is similar to the Pilot, but includes features that PAs specifically noted as being important, such as, having 5 minutes to answer each question, knowing the content area of each question before opening it and being able to “pocket” a question to answer later, using references to help confirm answers, having flexibility to skip a quarter, etc. PAs are only required to answer questions in 8 quarters but having the additional 4 quarters provides more opportunity for PAs to reach the passing score.

NCCPA’s President/CEO Dawn Morton-Rias has this to say about the new recertification alternative: “We are excited about the launch of the new PANRE-LA in January 2023. As a certified PA, I understand the stress and anxiety that comes with taking a recertification exam, especially for PAs working in specialized practices. At NCCPA, we’ve been working to help reduce that stress and anxiety while still providing a reliable assessment that helps PAs demonstrate their knowledge and identify areas in which they may be a bit weaker. The first change was moving to a core blueprint for all recertification exams, and now PAs can choose the exam format that is best for them. We want to make sure all eligible PAs know about this new option and are grateful to the Texas Academy of PAs for helping us share the news.”

PAs who are due for recertification in 2024, 2025, or 2026 and want to take the new PANRE-LA must apply by November 30, 2022. Additional information on the new PANRE-LA process is available on NCCPA’s website. You can contact NCCPA by emailing nccpa@nccpa.net, sending a text to 678-417-8101, or calling 678-417-8100 (8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday).