Looking to stand out? NCCPA offers the Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in seven specialties.

“The CAQ acknowledges the skills and years of experience I have in my area of medical practice. It lets others know that I have been formally reviewed and tested in this field and have passed those requirements to carry a CAQ in my specialty.”

– Stuart Richards, PA-C, CAQ-EM

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Emergency Medicine to show your advanced expertise in your specialty.

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Still unsure? Get a feel for the exam by reviewing some sample questions. Then read more about the requirements below.

Introduction and Prerequisites

PAs seeking the Emergency Medicine CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in emergency medicine, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Emergency Medicine Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Emergency Medicine CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, candidates must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on emergency medicine practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to emergency medicine, understanding that those credits may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Recommendations for CME Activities:
Physician and PA emergency medicine leaders provided input in developing the following CME recommendations for PAs interested in pursuing a CAQ in that specialty.

Applicants should complete a comprehensive emergency medicine course that reflects the guidelines set forth in the most current version of Model of the Clinical Practice of Emergency Medicine. Applicants should also complete the following courses:

• Pediatric Advanced Life Support or Advanced Pediatric Life Support
• Advanced Trauma Life Support
• Airway course

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Emergency Medicine CAQ must have gained at least 3,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of 18 months of full-time practice) working as a PA in emergency medicine within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in the specialty, as described below. In support of this requirement, each candidate must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the procedures and patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the procedures should be performed.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each procedure, but he or she must be knowledgeable of the basics of the procedures, in what situation the procedures should be done, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether a PA can satisfy the Specialty Procedures and Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to the following areas:

Airway Adjuncts: Invasive Airway Management

• Intubation
• Mechanical ventilation
• Capnometry
• Non-invasive ventilatory management

Anesthesia

• Local, digital
• Procedural anesthesia, conscious sedation

Advanced Wound Management

• Incision & drainage, wound debridement
• Superficial/deep wound closure

Diagnostic/Therapeutic Procedures

• Soft tissue and joint aspiration
• Lumbar puncture
• Slit lamp examination
• Thoracentesis, thoracostomy
• Tonometry
• Control of epistaxis
• Electrocardiographic interpretation
• Cardiac pacing
• Defibrillation/cardioversion
• Clearing a cervical spine
• Fracture/dislocation management

Hemodynamic Techniques

• Peripheral venous access
• Arterial access for diagnostics and placement of arterial lines
• Central venous access
• Intraosseous infusion

Radiographic Interpretation

• Chest x-ray
• Plain films (bone, soft tissues, abdominal series, etc.)
• CT scans, MRIs

Resuscitation

• Cardiopulmonary
• Fluid

The Emergency Medicine Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Emergency Medicine CAQ, they can apply for the Emergency Medicine Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to emergency medicine targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2009-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA.

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• May 11, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a SEMPA EM CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• May 14-15, 2021 – SEMPA EM CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Emergency Medicine CAQ

The Emergency Medicine CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Emergency Medicine Specialty Examination before the expiration of the current CAQ, and — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ

• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• May 11, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a SEMPA EM CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• May 14-15, 2021 – SEMPA EM CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes. PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.

“I feel that the CAQ will finally give me a way to quantify the level of skill and specialized knowledge that I have gained through my PA career. It will also be an easily recognizable way that patients can tell that they are being cared for by a competent individual who has gone out of his-or-her way to prove themselves in their chosen career path.”

– -Dimas J. Valentin, PA-C, CAQ-HM, MPAS

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Hospital Medicine to show your advanced expertise in your specialty. 

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Introduction and Prerequisites 

PAs seeking the Hospital Medicine CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in hospital medicine, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Hospital Medicine Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Hospital Medicine CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, PAs must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on hospital medicine practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The 75 required CME credits must include an activity related to risk management. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to hospital medicine, understanding that those hours may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Hospital Medicine CAQ must have gained at least 3,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of 18 months of full-time practice, primarily involving the management of hospitalized adult patients) working as a PA in that specialty within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in hospital medicine, as described below. In support of this requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the appropriate techniques and methods should be applied.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each item, but must be knowledgeable of the basics of the item, in what situation various techniques and methods should be applied, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether an applicant can satisfy the Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to the following areas:

• Paracentesis
  • Thoracentesis
  • Chest tube placement
  • Lumbar puncture
  • Ultrasonography
  • Intubation
  • Arthrocentesis
  • Vascular access
  • Cardiac testing (includes EKGs, stress)

In addition, the PA must demonstrate an understanding of the following principles of system-base practice in hospital medicine:

• Care of the hospitalized adult patient, including elderly and vulnerable populations
• Communication
• Diagnostic decision making
• Drug safety, pharmacoeconomics and pharmacoepidemiology
• Evidence-based medicine
• Information management
• Leadership
• Management practices

The Hospital Medicine Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Hospital Medicine CAQ, they can apply for the Hospital Medicine Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to hospital medicine targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2012-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Hospital Medicine CAQ

The Hospital Medicine CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Hospital Medicine Specialty Exam before the expiration of the current CAQ, and — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ

• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes. PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.

“I have worked in nephrology for my entire PA career, and I feel that the  CAQ program is an opportunity for me to gain recognition in my field.” 

-Barbara L., PA-C, CAQ-Neph

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Nephrology to show your advanced expertise in your specialty. 

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Still unsure? Get a feel for the exam by reviewing some sample questions. Then read more about the requirements below.

Introduction and Prerequisites

PAs seeking the Nephrology CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in nephrology, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Nephrology Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Nephrology CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, PAs must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on nephrology practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to nephrology, understanding that those credits may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Recommendations for CME Activities
Physician and PA nephrology leaders provided input in developing the following CME recommendations for PAs interested in pursuing a CAQ in that specialty.

PAs should complete CME activities that encompass knowledge of the evaluation of the kidney function, urinalysis, radiological assessment of renal disease, the kidney in systemic disease, chronic kidney disease, peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, medications and the kidney, the kidney in special circumstances (i.e., pediatric patients, pregnancy, and/or aging), hypertension, billing and coding, and kidney transplantation.

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Nephrology CAQ must have gained at least 4,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of two years of full-time practice) working as a PA, including at least 2,000 hours (the equivalent of one year of full-time practice) in nephrology within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in nephrology, as described below. In support of this requirement, each candidate must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the procedures and patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the procedures should be performed.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each procedure, but he or she must be knowledgeable of the basics of the procedures, in what situation the procedures should be done, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether an applicant can satisfy the Specialty Procedures and Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to the following areas:

Case Management of Patients in One of the Following Nephrology Subspecialties:

• End stage renal disease
• Chronic kidney disease
• Kidney transplantation
• Hospitalist care involving acute dialytic therapy

Diagnosis & Management of:

• Hypertension (primary & secondary)
• Anemia
• Volume management
• Complications of dialysis
• Metabolic bone disease
• Adjustment of medication doses to GFR
• Medication management in patients with compromised renal function
• Vascular access management/complications in hemodialysis
• Nutritional management
• Uremia
• Catheter infections/malfunction
• Vascular access preparation and placement
• Peritoneal dialysis catheter placement
• Acute dialytic therapy
• Assessment/care/management of kidney donors and recipients pre- and post-transplant
• Collection/examination/interpretation of urine specimen

The Nephrology Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Nephrology CAQ, they can apply for the Nephrology Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to nephrology targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2009-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA.

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Nephrology CAQ

The Nephrology CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Nephrology Specialty Exam before the expiration of the current CAQ, an — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ

• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes. PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.

“I have been promoted and given higher pay and more responsibility since earning a CAQ.“

-Mark Wright, PA-C, CAQ-OS

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Orthopaedic Surgery to show your advanced expertise in your specialty. 

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Still unsure? Get a feel for the exam by reviewing some sample questions. Then read more about the requirements below.

Introduction and Prerequisites 

PAs seeking the Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in orthopaedic surgery, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Orthopaedic Surgery Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement 

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, candidates must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on orthopaedic surgery practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to orthopaedic surgery, understanding that those credits may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Recommendations for CME Activities:
Physician and PA orthopaedic surgery leaders provided input in developing the following CME recommendations for PAs interested in pursuing a CAQ in that specialty.

Applicants should complete CME activities that are focused in orthopaedic surgery and at the level appropriate for a PA practicing in the specialty.

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ must have gained at least 4,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of two years of full-time practice) working as a PA in that specialty within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in orthopaedic surgery, as described below. In support of this requirement, each candidate must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the procedures and patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the procedures should be performed.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each procedure, but he or she must be knowledgeable of the basics of the procedures, in what situation the procedures should be done, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether an applicant can satisfy the Specialty Procedures and Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to the following areas:

Anesthesia

• Local anesthesia including digital block
• Procedural anesthesia, conscious sedation
• Regional anesthesia

Advanced Wound Management

• Superficial/deep wound closure
• Wound debridement, incision and drainage
• Placement/removal of wound vacs, drains
• Tendon repair
• K-wire removal, hardware removal

Compartment Pressure Measurement/ Management

Diagnostic/Therapeutic Needle Aspiration/ Injections

• Joints, tendons, trigger points, bursa, cysts
• Needle biopsy

Diagnostic Radiography/Other Modalities

• Proper positioning and techniques for skeletal radiographs
• Interpretation of skeletal, soft tissue radiographs
• Interpretation of CT scan, MRIs
• Electromyography interpretation

Fracture, Dislocation Management

• Universal hip, shoulder, etc. reduction and relocation
• Application of braces, splints, casts, appliances
• Application of skeletal traction, skin traction
• Percutaneous pinning of fractures

Operative /Perioperative Care

• Preoperative consultation, evaluation
• First surgical assist
• Postoperative care, management

Prevention, Recognition, Management of Common Orthopaedic Complications/Conditions

• Deep venous thrombosis
• Pulmonary embolization
• Osteoporosis
• Osteomyelitis

The Orthopaedic Surgery Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ, they can apply for the Orthopaedic Surgery Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to orthopaedic surgery targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2009-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA.

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ

The Orthopaedic Surgery CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Orthopaedic Surgery Specialty Examination before the expiration of the current CAQ, and — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ

• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center

• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option

The online delivery option is only available to PAs who are maintaining a currently held CAQ.

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes. PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.

“I feel having a CAQ in pediatrics is a testament to my commitment to the  field, my fellow physicians and patients I work with on a daily basis. I feel it is  important as a PA to show my interest and dedication in  pursuing my education in pediatrics and the Pediatrics CAQ is the perfect opportunity.”

-Lauren Donaldson, PA-C, CAQ-Peds

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Pediatrics to show your advanced expertise in your specialty. 

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Introduction and Prerequisites

PAs seeking the Pediatrics CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in pediatrics, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Pediatrics Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Pediatrics CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, PAs must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on pediatric practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to pediatrics, understanding that those hours may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Pediatrics CAQ must have gained at least 4,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of two years of full-time practice) working as a PA in that specialty within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in pediatrics, as described below. In support of this requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the appropriate techniques and methods should be applied.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each item, but must be knowledgeable of the basics of the item, in what situation various techniques and methods should be applied, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether an applicant can satisfy the Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to the following areas:

• history taking and physical examination appropriate for infants, children and adolescents
• preventive health counseling
• preoperative management
• postoperative management
• intravenous medication administration
• lumbar puncture
• venipuncture
• endotracheal intubation
• central line insertion
• peripheral intravenous catheter placement
• incision and drainage of an abscess
• simple laceration repair
• bladder catheterization
• foreign body removal
• tympanography
• spirometry
• hearing and vision screening
• circumcision
• splinting
• casting
• adolescent medicine, including gynecological exams and testicular exams
• wound and burn care

The Pediatrics Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Pediatrics CAQ, they can apply for the Pediatrics Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to pediatrics targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2012-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA.

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Pediatrics CAQ

The Pediatrics CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Pediatrics Specialty Exam before the expiration of the current CAQ, and — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option
The online delivery option is only available to PAs who are maintaining a currently held CAQ.

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes.  PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.

Earn a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Psychiatry to show your advanced expertise in your specialty. 

CAQ recipients seeking the following benefits have really reaped reward for their achievement:

• Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
• Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
• 60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
• Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
• Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
• Over 33% achieved or anticipate a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
• Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other health care professionals
• 66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients

Earning a CAQ shows your employers that you are committed to your specialty. It demonstrates your dedication and passion to health care and the well-being of your patients.

Still unsure? Get a feel for the exam by reviewing some sample questions. Then read more about the requirements below.

Introduction and Prerequisites

PAs seeking the Psychiatry CAQ must demonstrate they have advanced knowledge and experience in psychiatry, above and beyond that expected of entry-level PAs or PAs working in a generalist practice. PAs seeking eligibility for the Psychiatry Specialty Examination must meet requirements of specialty-specific CME and experience in the field. After initiating the CAQ process by submitting the requirements for one of the components and the $100 administrative fee, PAs will have six years within which to complete all four components for the CAQ, including passing the specialty exam.

PAs seeking the Psychiatry CAQ must also first satisfy two basic pre-requisites: (1) current PA-C certification and (2) possession of a valid, unrestricted license to practice as a PA in at least one jurisdiction in the United States or its territories, or unrestricted privileges to practice as a PA for a government agency. (Note: If a PA holds licenses in multiple states, all of the licenses must be unrestricted.) The licensure prerequisite is addressed more fully here.

In support of the procedures and patient case requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PAs’ practice and experience. PAs may find it helpful, however, to secure such a sponsor at the beginning of the process for the purpose of seeking guidance on the pursuit of the other requirements.

CME Requirement

In the six years preceding the date of application for the specialty exam, PAs must earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on psychiatry practice with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within the two years prior to the date of exam application. The same 75 credits may also be used for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

PAs are encouraged to use their best judgment when determining whether individual CME activities are related to psychiatry, understanding that those hours may be subject to a CME auditing process.

Upon fulfillment of all CME requirements, candidates will attest to their completion at NCCPA’s website.

Recommendations for CME Activities:
Physician and PA psychiatry leaders provided input in developing the following CME recommendations for PAs interested in pursuing a CAQ in that specialty.

Applicants should complete CME activities that are focused in psychiatry and at the level appropriate for a PA practicing in the specialty.

Experience Requirement

PAs seeking the Psychiatry CAQ must have gained at least 2,000 hours of experience (the equivalent of one year of full-time practice) working as a PA in that specialty within six years of the date they attest to NCCPA that the experience requirement has been satisfied. If selected for an audit, documentation substantiating that work experience will be required.

Procedures/Patient Case Requirement

Candidates for the CAQ must be able to apply the appropriate knowledge and skills needed for practice in psychiatry, as described below. In support of this requirement, each applicant must provide attestation from a physician, lead/senior PA, or physician/PA post graduate program director who works in the specialty and is familiar with the PA’s practice and experience within 90 days after they receive their CAQ score. The attestation of knowledge and skills must indicate that the PA has performed the patient management relevant to the practice setting and/or understands how and when the appropriate techniques and methods should be applied.

Again, the PA may not have experience with each item, but must be knowledgeable of the basics of the item, in what situation various techniques and methods should be applied, and the associated management of patients.

In determining whether an applicant can satisfy the Patient Case Requirement, consideration should be given to psychiatrist-observed patient case management across a broad range of psychopathology and appropriate treatments that include the following elements of psychiatric patient care and disorders (as appropriate given the applicant’s practice setting and area of focus):

• Psychiatric interview, differential diagnosis and treatment plan
  • Psychiatric pharmacology
  • Treatment implementation/intervention
  • Crisis intervention/risk management
  • Ethical & legal issues

Disorders:

• Mood disorders
• Psychotic disorders
• Substance-related disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Personality disorders
• Delirium, dementia, and cognitive disorders
• Life cycle and adjustment disorders
• Childhood disorders that persist into adolescence and adulthood
• Somatoform and factitious disorders
• Eating disorders
• Sexual and gender identity disorders
• Dissociative disorders
• Impulse control disorders not elsewhere classified
• Sleep disorders
• Ethics and forensic issues

The Psychiatry Specialty Exam

Once PAs have satisfied other requirements for the Psychiatry CAQ, they can apply for the Psychiatry Specialty Exam — 120 multiple-choice questions related to psychiatry targeted for PAs with experience in the practice of that specialty. It will be based on the Content Blueprint, developed using data gathered during the 2009-2015 PA Practice Analysis conducted by NCCPA.

To review sample questions, click here.

Key Dates for Earning a CAQ

All exams for earning the initial CAQ are administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers. 

• January 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to earn a CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 29, 2021 –  Deadline to apply for a Psych Congress CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• November 2, 2021 –  Psych Congress CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers

This document on What to Expect on Test Day  document will be helpful to those preparing for this exam as well.

Maintaining the Psychiatry CAQ

The Psychiatry CAQ awarded to successful candidates will be valid for ten years. To maintain the CAQ beyond that timeframe, PAs must continue to meet the same PA-C and licensure requirements required of those seeking the CAQ for the first time, pass the Psychiatry Specialty Exam before the expiration of the current CAQ, and — during the ten-year CAQ cycle — earn and log at least 125 credits of Category I CME focused on the specialty. Those CME credits may also be used to satisfy the CME requirement for maintenance of the PA-C credential.

Key Dates for Maintaining a Currently Held CAQ

PAs who are registering to take a CAQ exam to maintain their CAQ may choose to take the exam at a Pearson VUE Test Center or may choose the online delivery option.

Pearson VUE Test Center Delivery Option

• February 1, 2021 – Exam application window opens for PAs applying to maintain their currently held CAQ
• April 2, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Spring CAQ Exam administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• April 5-10, 2021 – Spring administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 1, 2021 – Deadline to apply for a Fall CAQ Exam Administration at a Pearson VUE Test Center
• October 4-9, 2021 – Fall administration window for all CAQ exams administered at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• October 29, 2021 –  Deadline to apply for a Psych Congress CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers
• November 2, 2021 –  Psych Congress CAQ administration at Pearson VUE Test Centers

Online Delivery Option
The online delivery option is only available to PAs who are maintaining a currently held CAQ.

The online delivery option for 2021 has closed. Information on the 2022 administration will be updated later this year.

Other Policies

Auditing

To ensure the reliability and accuracy of the CAQ and maintenance processes, NCCPA may audit the requirements of PAs who have applied for a CAQ or have successfully completed the CAQ process. PAs who fail the audit or refuse to submit to an audit may be subject to loss of the CAQ and/or other disciplinary actions as deemed appropriate by NCCPA and in accordance with the Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Loss of Eligibility

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ after submitting the application and fee, he or she will be deemed ineligible and restricted from registering for the exam or from maintenance of CAQ activity, or will be withdrawn from the examination or maintenance activity if registration has already been processed.

Financial Requirements

PAs must fulfill all outstanding financial debts and any applicable fees to NCCPA prior to becoming eligible to apply for a CAQ or for CAQ maintenance.

If a PA loses eligibility for a CAQ or CAQ maintenance after submitting the respective application and fees or if, at any time, it is determined that a PA provided incorrect eligibility information on any NCCPA application, the PA shall forfeit all fees.

Exam Scores

Scores from the CAQ exams will be released to examinees after NCCPA has completed all scoring and validation processes. PAs may not register to repeat an examination if they have scores pending from a previous administration of the same examination. If a PA is deemed ineligible for the CAQ after taking the exam but prior to the release of exam scores, the exam scores will be invalidated and not reported to the PA.

Disciplinary Review

Nothing in this policy shall limit or prevent NCCPA from imposing sanctions as set forth in its Policy and Procedures for Disciplinary Review.

Regaining a Certificate of Added Qualifications

PAs who lose a CAQ due to the expiration of their PA-C certification may reinstate their CAQ upon regaining their PA-C certification, as long as the original or most recent CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PA meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program. The CAQ will be reinstated for the period of time remaining in the CAQ maintenance period. PAs who lose a CAQ for any other reason, including NCCPA disciplinary actions, must begin the CAQ process anew by meeting the eligibility requirements for initial CAQs, including passing the CAQ examination, or may seek a reinstatement of their CAQ when they regain certification by filing a request for an exception to policy, as long as the CAQ expiration date has not passed and the PAs meets the licensure/federal privilege requirements for the CAQ program.