Which organization's primary function is to certify PAs through examinations?

Which organization's primary function is to certify PAs through examinations?

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

Answer: (C)

The main idea is identifying who provides the formal certification for PAs through a standardized exam. That role belongs to the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). They develop and administer the national certifying exam (PANCE) that graduates must pass to earn the PA-C credential and also handle the ongoing recertification process. Other organizations play different parts: ARC-PA accredits PA educational programs to ensure quality, AAPA is the professional association for PAs, and PAEA supports PA education and educators. But the organization that certifies individuals by examination is NCCPA.

The main idea is identifying who provides the formal certification for PAs through a standardized exam. That role belongs to the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). They develop and administer the national certifying exam (PANCE) that graduates must pass to earn the PA-C credential and also handle the ongoing recertification process.

Other organizations play different parts: ARC-PA accredits PA educational programs to ensure quality, AAPA is the professional association for PAs, and PAEA supports PA education and educators. But the organization that certifies individuals by examination is NCCPA.