Which organization is the sole certifying body for PAs in the United States?

Which organization is the sole certifying body for PAs in the United States?

• A. NCCPA
• B. PAEA
• C. ARC-PA
• D. AAPA

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is who officially verifies a Physician Assistant’s credentials. The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is the sole organization that awards PA certification, administering the national exams like the PANCE for initial certification and the recertification process later on. State medical boards typically require NCCPA certification for licensure, which is why NCCPA is the definitive certifying body for PAs in the United States. The other groups have different roles: PAEA supports PA education and professional development, ARC-PA accredits PA programs, and AAPA is a professional association for practicing PAs.

The main idea here is who officially verifies a Physician Assistant’s credentials. The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) is the sole organization that awards PA certification, administering the national exams like the PANCE for initial certification and the recertification process later on. State medical boards typically require NCCPA certification for licensure, which is why NCCPA is the definitive certifying body for PAs in the United States.

The other groups have different roles: PAEA supports PA education and professional development, ARC-PA accredits PA programs, and AAPA is a professional association for practicing PAs.