Number
512
Name
Decoding the Choice: What Contributes to Physician Assistants/Associates' Decision To Participate in the Longitudinal Instead of the Traditional Assessment for Board Recertification?
Date & Time
Sunday, June 15, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Location Name
Exhibition Hall C
Speakers
Mirela Bruza-Augatis - National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
Presentation Topic(s)
Other
Description

Purpose
Physician assistants/associates (PAs) maintain their certification through either the secure, point-in-time Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE) administered at a testing center or the Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam Longitudinal Assessment (PANRE-LA). PANRE-LA is designed to assess and promote self-directed learning. We evaluated factors influencing PAs’ choice of PANRE-LA over the traditional PANRE and examined potential differences based on demographics and practice attributes.

Methods
We analyzed surveys from 2023 and 2024 (N=15,211) collected by the National Commission on Certification of PAs (NCCPA). The surveys assessed 11 factors influencing PAs' choice to participate in PANRE-LA over the traditional PANRE. Additionally, 14 demographic and practice characteristics from the NCCPA PA Professional Profile were integrated with survey responses to identify potential differences.

Results
PAs indicated flexibility/convenience (86.2%) was the most impactful factor in their choice to complete PANRE-LA, followed by reduced stress/anxiety related to the testing experience (78.3%), and immediate personalized feedback, including explanations and references (59.7%). Approximately half valued the ability to earn CME, the use of online/print resources to help answer questions, the less time needed to prepare for the exam, and their commitment to continuous learning. The least selected factors included ‘other’ (2.9%), costs related to travel/taking time off work (31.3%), the perception the exam is easier due to its formative components (32.5%), and curiosity about the new format (41.2%). Analyses revealed few significant differences in reported contributing factors by PA demographics and practice attributes.

Conclusion
Flexibility/convenience, reduced stress/anxiety, and immediate personalized feedback are the primary reasons PAs choose longitudinal assessments. These reasons are consistent across diverse PA demographics and practice characteristics. As longitudinal assessments are relatively new, it is essential to research providers' perspectives to ensure they meet PAs’ needs. This alignment can enhance engagement and learning, ultimately contributing to better-quality care and a stronger healthcare system.