BECOMING A PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT Physician Assistant … · 2015-05-12 · Physician Assistant National Certification Exam (PANCE) In order to be eligible to sit for the PANCE, you

BECOMING A PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

✔_PANCE Registration Information

✔_PANCE Test Information

✔_Test Preparation

✔_What to Expect on Exam Day

✔_Exam Results

✔_Jurisprudence Exam

✔_After The ‘C’

✔_Texas Licensure

✔_Getting a Job

✔_Make a Good First Impression

Physician Assistant Countdown

You’ve graduated from PA school, now what’s next?

Here’s all you need to know about getting your PA-C.

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT COUNTDOWN

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What’s Next? NCCPA Certification — Getting Your PA-CBefore you can receive your Texas physician assistant (PA) license, you must first pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE) administered through the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).

What is NCCPA?NCCPA is the National Commission on the Certification of Physician Assistants. They are the only nationally recognized certifying body for PAs in the United States. NCCPA is dedicated to assuring the public that certified PAs meet professional standards of clinical knowledge and cognitive skills. All US states recognize NCCPA certification as criteria for initial licensure for PAs. The Physician Assistant National Certification Exam (PANCE) and the Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE) are developed and administered by the NCCPA. You can find all the information about NCCPA on their website — www.nccpa.net. For student information on certification go to: https://www.nccpa.net/StudentLogin

If you have questions, you can email the NCCPA at [email protected] or call 678-417-8100.

Physician Assistant National Certification Exam (PANCE)In order to be eligible to sit for the PANCE, you must be a graduate from an accredited physician assistant program. The initial exam is a 300 multiple-choice question exam that is entirely computer based. Successful completion and passing the exam is a prerequisite to licensure in all states. *It is not required for renewal of an active Texas PA license.

PANCE Registration Information◆ Cost is currently $475, you must pay in advance

when registering online.

◆ You cannot register for the exam before 90 days of your expected graduation.

◆ You can sit for the exam 7 days after the graduation date posted or reported by your Program Director. NOTE – the reported date may not be the same as the day of graduation ceremonies. Please contact your respective PA program to confirm the posted graduation date.

◆ If there is any chance that you will not complete your PA program requirements on time, wait until you are confident you will indeed graduate before registering for the exam.

◆ You may register to take the PANCE online at https://www.nccpa.net/PA/LoginNew.aspx

◆ You will be given an NCCPA ID# that will serve as your certification number following passage of the PANCE.

◆ The test is administered through Pearson VUE testing centers – visit the website http://www.pearsonvue.com/nccpa/ or call to schedule an exam date 866-786-3326.

◆ You have 180 days from the posted graduation date to take the exam. *There will be no testing between December 21st-31st, 2013

PANCE Test Information◆ There are 300 basic medical and surgical questions.

◆ You have 5 hours to complete the test

• Six blocks of 60 questions.

• 60 minutes to complete each block

◆ If you do not pass initially:

• You are eligible to take the PANCE once in a 90 day period, or 3 times a year.

• You can only attempt to pass the PANCE six times in six years.


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Exam Content Task Areas: http://www.nccpa.net/ExamsContentBPTasks.aspx

Organ Areas: http://www.nccpa.net/ExamsContentBPOrgans.aspx

Test Preparation

ORGAN SYSTEMSEXAM CONTENT

History Taking & Performing Physical Examinations – 16%

Using Laboratory & Diagnostic Studies – 14%

Formulating Most Likely Diagnosis – 18%

Health Maintenance – 10%

Clinical Intervention – 14%

Pharmaceutical Therapeutics – 18%

Applying Basic Science Concepts – 10%

16%

14%

18%10%

14%

18%

10%3%

16%

12%

6%

9%

6%

10%

10%8%

6%

6%5%

3%

Pulmonary – 12%

Eyes, Ears, Nose and Throat – 9%

Endocrine – 6%

Cardiovascular – 16%

Reproductive – 8%

Musculoskeletal – 10%

Genitourinary – 6%

Gastrointestinal/Nutritional – 10%

Neurologic System – 6%

Psychiatry/Behavioral – 6%

Dermatologic – 5%

Hematologic – 3%

Infectious Diseases – 3%


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◆ Multiple review books and courses are available. You are the best judge about the study methods that are most effective for you.

◆ NCCPA has a Self-Assessment online exam to help you prepare for the PANCE:

• Costs $35

• 120 computer based questions from the PANCE and PANRE test question bank.

• Includes two blocks of 60 questions each.

• You are given overall test results immediately, but answers and explanations are not provided.

• Graphic representation of strengths and weaknesses.

◆ Talk to your PA program for study programs, prep courses and resources that are available.

◆ Recommended Review Resources:

• Appleton and Lange Q&A

• American Academy of Physician Assistants: http://www.aapa.org/cme.aspx

• Step Up to Medicine

• NCCPA Self-Assessment: http://www.nccpa.net/ SelfAssessment

• Class Notes

◆ Formal Review Courses – you can find a list of exam review courses with dates and locations on the AAPA website – http://www.aapa.org/cme/schedule.aspx

◆ Visit www.pearsonvue.com/nccpa to find testing locations in your area, schedule exams, and review tutorials on taking the PANCE.

What to Expect on Exam Day◆ Arrive at least 30 minutes early, and make sure to

have adequate hydration and a balanced meal.

◆ Have 2 forms of ID: one must include a picture, printed name, and signature; the second must have your printed name and signature.

◆ Put everything you have in a locker. You will be able to access personal belongings during scheduled breaks.

◆ There are a total of 45 minutes of allotted scheduled breaks, taken between blocks.

◆ You can take an ‘unscheduled’ break at any time, but be aware that the time is deducted from the 60 minutes allowed to complete that individual section.

◆ You manage your time and your breaks, there is no official lunch break.

Exam Results◆ Graduates usually receive NCCPA exam scores within

2 weeks of their exam date.

• You will receive an email notification on when to check NCCPA website for your posted results.

• You can access your posted results by logging into your personal NCCPA certification record.

• Must send a request in writing (mail or fax) or online (email) to have a letter verifying your eligibility send to the state board for your license.

* NCCPA can provide verification of certification and release of exam scores through an online or written request.

Maintaining The ‘C’◆ After passing the PANCE, PAs are issued a certificate

entitling them to use the ‘PA-C’ designation until the expiration date printed on the certificate.

◆ The ‘C’ is valid through 12/31 of the second year after you graduate.

◆ To maintain active certification, a PA-C must:

• Complete 100 hours of CME every 2 years — At least 50 hours of which must be Category I

• Must be preapproved CME by one of the following organizations: AAPA, AMA (providers accredited by ACCME), AOA or AAFP. Formats for earning Category I CME include seminars, conferences and online.

• All CME hours must be logged with the NCCPA.

• Recertification is granted in 2 year cycles.

• Log CME online ($80) by June 30 or ($130) by December 31st of your certification expiration year.

◆ Maintain all documentation of completed Category 1 CME credits, as NCCPA randomly audits Category 1 CME hours.

• You will be notified by postal mail and email if you are to be audited.

◆ Starting in 2014, NCCPA recertification will transition to a 10-year maintenance cycle for those who initially sit for the PANCE in 2014, or are eligible for recertification in 2024.


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• Will still include 2-year CME maintenance cycles.

• Must still earn 100 CME credit hours every two years. Of these, 50 credit hours must be Category I.

• Duringthefirstfour,2-yearCMEcycle,20of the 50 required Category I CME hours must be earned through self-assessment CME or performance improvement CME (PI-CME) activities.

1. Self-assessment CME hours are spent conducting a systematic review of one’s personal performance, knowledge base, or skill set.

2. PI-CME involves active learning and application to improve one’s practice. This process includes:

a) Compare practice to benchmarks, guidelines or other evidence-based metrics.

b) Based on comparison, develop and implement a plan for improvement.

c) Evaluate impact of implementation.

• Thelast(5th)CMEcyclewillrequire completion of 100 CME credit hours (50 of which can be any Category I), and passage of the Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE).

◆ Recertification

• Starting with the new ten-year maintenance of certification cycle beginning in 2014, you must pass the PANRE during your 9th or 10th year within that cycle.

• There is only one recertification exam, the PANRE, and like the PANCE, must be completed at a Pearson VUE testing center: http://www. pearsonvue.com/nccpa/ or call to schedule an exam date 866-786-3326.

• Includes240multiple-choicequestions, and is entirely computer-based.

• Consistsof5blocksof60questionseach, 60 minutes allotted for each block for total 5 hours.

• 60%oftestcontentwillconsistof generalist questions covering all organ and task systems.

• Theremaining40%canbedirected towards: Adult medicine, Surgery & Primary care

• Costis$350.

• You can only take the PANRE once in a 90-day period.

• You can attempt to pass two times a year, for a total of 4 attempts.

• You do not have to submit your CME before you take the PANRE

Getting Your Texas LicenseLicense Application Process◆ You must complete the online application at https://

applications.tmb.state.tx.us/PA/identification.aspx

◆ Licensure fee of $325 – must be submitted along with the completed application, and is good for one year. This does not include annual registration fee for Texas licensure, or fee for temporary license.

◆ Once your on-line application is received, you will be notified via e-mail of the processing status and a list of items that are missing. You will also receive a scheduling permit to take the Jurisprudence Exam.

◆ Start the application process early!! You can complete the online application prior to graduation; this will aid in augmenting processing time (typically 60-90 days).

◆ It is strongly advised that all required documents be sent by a delivery service that allows shipment tracking and receipt verification or confirmation.

◆ All documents, fees, and application materials must be received 20 days before the next Texas PA Board (TPAB) meeting to be considered complete.

◆ TPAB meets three times a year to consider applicants for permanent licensure (March, July/August, and November/December).

Jurisprudence ExamTo receive your Texas License, you must also take the Jurisprudence Exam through the Texas Physician Assistant Board. This exam covers licensing requirements, and other laws and regulations governing PA practice in the state of Texas.


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◆ There are 50 multiple-choice questions taken from an online pool of 100 possible questions. These questions can be found at: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/idl/7949A6BB-1C85-18A8-46AF-1734DFABC9AF

◆ The test is administered by Pearson VUE testing centers. Registration for this exam is completed through the following website: http://www.pearsonvue.com/tx/medicalboard/

◆ There is a $61 fee to take the test.

◆ You will receive a scheduling permit from the TPAB after you register, and will need this information in order to register through the Pearson VUE website.

Things You Will Need To Do◆ Provide your NCCPA certification (i.e. proof you

passed the PANCE).

◆ Your PA Program will need to confirm your graduation.

◆ Be sure to read through the application instructions thoroughly and carefully.

◆ Comply with the instructions and any requests for additional information FULLY.

◆ The Board conducts background checks so be thorough and honest- prior offenses including juvenile records will be available to the Board

◆ Overview of the PA Licensure Process: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/licensing-physician-assistant

Supplemental Documents◆ Birth certificate or passport

◆ Copy of PA Diploma

◆ Dean’s Certification – Form D

◆ Certified PA school transcript

◆ Program Director Form – Form L-PA/AC – must be in sealed envelope with Program Director’s signature across envelope flap.

◆ NCCPA Attempt Request Form: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/idl/69662416-8908-EA1F-8130-92D1488EED1D

◆ State Board Licensure Verification

◆ Copies of any other health care professional licenses held.

◆ Statement of health professional background: Alternate Name (Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court-ordered change, etc.)

◆ Copy of DD 214 if discharged from military

◆ Form W – Mental and Physical Health Disclosure – must be submitted if you have been medically treated or admitted for a mental health condition, or a physical condition that may affect your ability to fully practice as a PA.

Temporary License◆ You can obtain a temporary license to practice in the

interim between TPAB meetings.

◆ You must complete and submit the Temporary License Affidavit: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/idl/E0AFB291-2DA0-AEB3-2D82-E29C31DF3D13

• Costs an additional $107

◆ All supporting application documents must be submitted, and will be reviewed by TPAB staff. If no issues are identified, a temporary license will be issued and you name will be added to the list of applicants to be granted permanent licensure at the next Board meeting.

◆ A confirmation email or letter will be sent to you verifying issuance of Temporary license. You can contact to the TPAB staff with questions or to check the status of your request at 512-305-7030.

Supervising Physician◆ You must complete the Online Supervision and

Prescriptive Delegation Registration through the Texas Medical Board (TMB) Website: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/renewal-supervisor-online-registration

◆ If you change or add a Supervising Physician, the new application must be updated through the TMB website

• Must notify the Board of changes related to supervising physicians no later than 30 days after the change is made.


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• Includesbothadditionandterminationof supervising physician relationships.

• Submittinganapplicationforanew Supervising Physician does not terminate other supervision that is currently in place.

• There is no limit to the number of Supervising Physicians a PA can have.

• A Supervising Physician may have up to 7 full- time equivalent PAs.

• Full-time equivalent is 50 hours per week

Prescription Delegation and DEA InformationYou do NOT need a DPS or DEA number to write for drugs that are not controlled. i.e. Dangerous Drugs: Amoxicillin

Schedule I substances PAs cannot prescribe in Texas

◆_ Have no accepted medical use in the United States and have a high abuse potential

◆_ Some examples are heroin LSD, peyote

Schedule II substances PAs can prescribe in hospital or hospice setting

◆_ High abuse potential with severe psychic or physical dependence liability

◆__ Schedule II controlled substances consist of certain narcotic, stimulant and depressant drugs

◆_ Some examples of Schedule II narcotic controlled substances are: opium, morphine, codeine, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), methadone, pantopon, meperidine (Demerol)

Schedule III substances PAs can prescribe with DPS & DEA number

◆_ Abuse potential less Schedules I and II, and include compounds containing limited quantities of certain narcotic drugs and non-narcotic drugs such as: codeine (Tylenol with Codeine), chlorphentermine, preparation or suppository dosage form containing amobarbital, secobarbital or pentobarbital

Schedule IV substances PAs can prescribe with DPS & DEA number

◆ Abuse potential less than Schedule III and include such drugs as: phenobarbital, chloral hydrate, clorazepate (Tranxene), alprazolam (Xanax), Quazepam (Dormalin)

Schedule V substances PAs can prescribe with DPS & DEA number

◆ Abuse potential less than Schedule IV and consist primarily of preparations containing limited quantities of certain narcotic and stimulant drugs generally for antitussive, antidiarrheal and analgesic purposes

◆_ Some examples are Robitussin A-C, Lomotil, and Lyrica

If your Supervising Physician delegates prescriptive privileges and requests that you prescribe Scheduled drugs (III-V), you need DPS and DEA numbers.

• You must first request a DPS number from the Texas Department of State Health Services, website: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/ RegulatoryServices/narcotics/narcforms.htm

• Yoursupervisingphysicianmustdelegate prescriptive authority for controlled substances as stated on the TMB website.

• Paper-basedDPSapplicationcanbeaccessed at: http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/ InternetForms/Forms/NAR-77A-78A.pdf

• ApplicationMUSTbesignedbysupervising physician.

• Completedoriginalapplicationmustbe mailed to Texas DPS.

• Applicationfeeis$25.

• Youmustrenewthiscertificateeachyear,the form will be mailed to you.

- Takes 2 weeks to 60 days to process.

- $25 annual renewal fee.

• Once you have received your DPS Controlled Substance Registration Certificate, you can register with the DEA.

• FilloutonlineDEA-224Form:https://www. deadiversion.usdoj.gov/webforms/jsp/ regapps/common/newAppLogin.jsp

You will need:

• YourpracticeTAXIDnumberand/orSocial Security Number

• StateControlledSubstanceRegistration(DPS) Information

• StateMedicalLicenseInformation

• Creditcard

• Thereisafeeof$731forthree-yearregistration.


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• DEA In Texas

• Schedule3,3N(narcotics),4,5.

• PAscanprescribeandadminister90day supply only.

- Refills must be completed by Supervising Physician.

• Delegationbystate:http://www.deadiversion. usdoj.gov/drugreg/reg_apps/pract_state_lic_ require.htm

Total Fees

• Online processing fee $5.96, fee for paper- (non- online) registration $50

• There is absolutely no grace period

• $50feefor90extradaystosubmitCME

• $100fee91days–1year(after,yourlicense will be canceled)

National Provider Identification Number◆ National Provider Identification replaced the Unique

Physician Identification Number (UPIN)

◆ 10-digit number issued by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

◆ Required by HIPAA for medical transfer of information

◆ Stays with you regardless of job or location.

• Does not replace your license or DEA number

◆ Apply at: https://nppes.cms.hhs.gov/NPPES/StaticForward.do?forward=static.npistart

Getting a JobResumes and CVs◆ A resume is a condensed list usually one or two

pages, highlighting and summarizing previous and current jobs or other relevant experience. Resumes should include:

• Contact information

• Your objective

◆ Health-related employment history

◆ Education information

◆ Additional clinical training – list out clinical rotations as your “Professional” or “Pertinent Clinical” experience.

◆ License/certification information

◆ A CV is a longer, more detailed document designed to demonstrate expertise and authority. CVs generally include:

• Contact information

• Employment history

• Education information

LICENSURE COSTS:Temporary License ................................................................$107.00Application Processing Fee ..................................................$325.00First Registration Fee ........................................... $133.75 -$319.38 6 months ($133.75) 9 months ($195.63) 12 months ($257.50)

15 months ($319.38)

Jurisprudence Exam .............................................................. $61.00Total Potential Licensure Costs .....................$458.75 to $644.38With Temporary License .................................$351.75 to $751.38

ADDITIONAL COSTS:NCCPA Self-Assessment ....................................................... $35.00NCCPA PANCE .....................................................................$475.00NCCPA Total ........................................................................$590.00DPS (not mandatory) .............................................................. $25.00DEA (not mandatory) ............................................................$731.00

TOTAL MAXIMAL COSTS FOR LICENSURE + ADDITIONAL COSTS:

$2.097.38

***During discussion and negotiation with potential employer, it is okay to ask about reimbursement for licensure and certification costs.

Maintaining your Texas License◆ Complete 40 hours of CME during the period of your

annual licensure

• 20 hours must be Category I

◆ Complete annual registration forms and fees (currently $253.50) on time


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• Professional qualifications

• Awards

• Publications

• Presentations

• Professional Memberships

• Community involvement or volunteering

• Interests

Cover LettersA cover letter is a way to introduce yourself and your work to prospective employers. The letter should be direct, concise and tailored to each position you apply for.

◆ Each letter should be less than one page long.

◆ The purpose of your letter should be stated in the first paragraph.

◆ Explain in the body of the letter how your skills benefit the practice or organization. BE SPECIFIC AND SUCCINCT!

◆ Mention areas of excellence that are listed on your resume or CV and explain further.

◆ Close with proposed next steps, such as calling to follow up within a week.

Use your ResourcesGo online for samples of resumes, CVs and cover letters, or ask friends who have had successful job searches. If you are a Student Member of the AAPA, you can also access additional resources at: http://www.aapa.org/your_pa_career/pa_students.aspx

Employment Resources◆ TAPA Career Center - Your destination for exciting

Physician Assistants job opportunities. We feature various Physician Assistants jobs. Go to www.tapa.org and click on Career Center, Search Jobs on the home page.

◆ PA Job Link – To help connect PAs and employers, AAPA developed the PA Job Link – a free, comprehensive employment resource for PA students and practicing PAs. The Job Link not only includes job postings, but also has professional development

tools, salary profiles, interviewing tips and contract templates to assist you in negotiating an employment package. http://www.healthecareers.com/aapa/search-jobs/.

◆ Networking

• TAPA Conferences – network with practicing PAs from around the state. Meet with PAs who work in your area and who may be able to connect you to employers who are hiring.

• Local PA Regional Groups – some chapters have monthly CME meetings as well as networking functions. For a list of local Texas PA chapters, go to: http://tapa.site-ym.com/?page=1

• PA Program Alumni Group – join your PA program’s alumni group to stay in touch with classmates and to network.

Make a Good First Impression◆ Create contacts during your clinical rotations, and

during attendance at conferences and seminars.

◆ Create an introductory email or letter that can be modified for each specific position to which you are applying.

◆ Do Your Research!

• Before you go on an interview, find out information about the interviewer, clinic, hospital and their affiliations.

• Visit the location prior to the interview date so you know where you are going and how much time it will take to get there.

• Make sure to verify where to park!

◆ Prepare for the Interview

• Create mock questions and have your friends quiz you on them.

• If you are a Student Member of the AAPA, refer to the “Career ComPAnion” brochure and online information.

• CareerComPAnion:http://www.aapa. org/your_pa_career/pa_students/resources/ item.aspx?id=3684

• AAPA,PAStudentEssentialsPost-Grad Information and Links: http://www. pastudentessentials.com/after-pa-school-2/


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◆ Dress the part!

• Dress professionally! It is always better to be over-dressed than under-dressed for interviews. Unless otherwise instructed, suits are a good option. Remember, you are making a first impression.

• Little or no cologne/perfume, limit jewelry to total five pieces.

• Bring a portfolio, working pen or pencil and bottled water with you.

◆ Interview Day

• Confidence is Key!

• Be sure to arrive on time.

• Go to the bathroom before your interview and check your appearance in the mirror.

• Have at least 3 questions on hand to ask your interviewer.

• Bring PA information/statistics with you, and bring multiple paper copies of your resume.

• YoucanaccessPAstatisticsattheAAPA website: http://www.aapa.org/the_pa_ profession.aspx

◆ Utilize your Body Language

• Non-Verbal: sit straight, lean forward, and maintain good eye contact.

• Verbal: have well thought out questions, no gum, don’t interview the interviewer, take notes (ask), and speak clearly.

◆ Know your Expectations

• Refer to AAPA’s “Career ComPAnion” for important questions to ask and points to consider.

• What is the PA role in this office? Would you be their first PA? Do they have a lot of turnover?

• Will you have your own office?

• What are the hours? Will you be on call? Does the job require a lot of travel?

• Arecallhourscompensatedapartfromsalary?

• Aretravelcostsreimbursed?

• It is okay to ask about salary and contract terms, typically recommended towards the end of the interview.

• Always ask about fringe benefits:

• Medical,Dental,DisabilityInsurance,paid time off (PTO).

• Professionalexpenses(CME,national/state/ specialty organization dues)

• Licensureandmaintenanceofcertificationcosts

• It’s not all about the money – think about hours, lifestyle, fringe benefits, vacation, etc.

◆ Determining the Next Step/Follow Up

• Immediately after interview, gather your thoughts and organize your notes.

• Didyouhaveagoodrapportwiththe physician and staff?

• Whatwastheirphilosophyonpatientcare? Does it match with your personal philosophy?

• Whatisyour“gutfeeling”?

• Writeathankyouletterwithinoneweekto your interviewer.

• Someplacesofemploymentwillinviteyou to shadow in the clinic or hospital as part of the interview process. If you think this would be of benefit to making a decision, it is okay to gently request this opportunity. Due to HIPAA regulations, this may not be possible in all locations.

◆ Prepare for Acceptance/Denial

• Before you hear a decision from the potential employer, make an internal decision about the position.

• Don’t do a second interview unless you are serious about taking the job.

• Evaluateyourownpersonalsituation. Consider all the factors that go into a job decision and do your best to stay objective. Buy time if needed to consider multiple opportunities. Hiring a PA is a huge investment on the employer’s end. The last thing most want is to hire someone who is not fully committed to the position.

• “I’mbeingverythoughtfulaboutthis important decision, and respect your timeline and generosity in the offer. Would you mind if I take a few days to think about this?”.


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• If you do deny a job, do so with grace and professional tact. This is especially important early in your career- the medical “world” is smaller than you may think!

Going to Work!◆ Do Not begin work as a PA until you have your

temporary or permanent license in hand

◆ Once you have identified an employer, make sure they register as your supervising physician and that all alternate supervisors are registered.

◆ Submit your Intent to Practice/Supervise a PA application online. You may not work until this is approved by the Board

• Access at: http://www.tmb.state.tx.us/page/ renewal-supervisor-online-registration

◆ Contact your employer’s human resources department for potential resources that may aid you in the credentialing process. As a PA, you will need to obtain practice privileges for each hospital or facility that you work within.

• The Texas Standardized Credentialing Application is a widely used form used during privileging processes. It is to your advantage to download the Word document, and save a personal copy. This allows you to update the form as needed.

◆ The form can be downloaded at: http://www.tdi.texas.gov/hmo/crform.html

Continue Membership in PA Organizations◆ Some benefits to TAPA Student Membership include:

• Six-month grace period – following graduation, you will continue to receive TAPA Student Members benefits for up to six months.

• You can elevate you membership anytime during this grace period, and receive half-off first year Fellow Membership fees ($83 for first year)

◆ If you are an AAPA Student Member, you also have a four-month grace period during which you maintain member benefits following graduation.

◆ Many aspects of your professional PA practice are supported by state and national organizations.

TAPA (http://www.tapa.org): • Two CME conferences each year, rotates locations

around the state of Texas; discounted registration for TAPA members.

• Legislative advocacy and representation for state laws affecting scope of practice.

• Access to TAPA Career Center.

• Leadership and networking opportunities.

• Representation of Texas PAs in annual legislative body of the AAPA, the House of Delegates.

AAPA (http://www.aapa.org): • Annual national conference each year, with other

CME opportunities.

• Practice resources related to clinical policy, reimbursement, malpractice information, and professional development.

• Legislative advocacy and representation for federal issues related to policy and national regulations.

• Access to PA Job Link.

• Opportunities for national leadership positions and networking opportunities.

◆ There are multiple other medical and PA specialty-based organizations that offer a wealth of other benefits, CME opportunities, and professional resources. Be sure to consider membership with the organizations that best address your clinical and professional needs.

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• PAsrecognizedtosignUILphysicals2000

• SB1131–ChangestoPAPractice✔ Expanded hospital requirement to provide policies on procedural rights in the credentialing of PAs✔ Insurance code modified to recognize PAs as selected health care practitioners & statutory law forbidding discrimination in recognizing PAs✔ Allowed health care organizations the ability to develop reimbursement methodology for PAs✔ Statutory language to allow individuals to call in prescriptions on behalf of the PA A Sen. Frank Madla & Rep. Jaime Capelo

1999

• TexasMedicaidRuleChange–ChangedsupervisionlanguagetomodelTexasstatuteonPAsupervision

1998

• SB673–DelegationofPrescriptiveAuthoritytoPAs(dangerous drugs only)

✔ PAs to declare death ✔ Sign for sample ✔ Prescriptive authority delegation limited to 3 ✔ Primary Practice Site defined A Sen. Frank Madla & Rep. Hugo Berlanga

• SB1302–RegulationofPAPractice ✔ Creation of Texas State Board of PA Examiners ✔ Required NCCPA certification for licensure ✔ TSBPAE given the ability to impose a rehabilitation order A Sen. David Cain & Rep. Hugo Berlanga

1995

• FirstPAlicenseissued.DwightDeterLicense#PA000011994

• LastPAlicenseissuedasofNovember22,2013JenniferA.Crumm,License#PA08790

• SB406–ExpansionofDelegatedPrescriptiveAuthority&Sitebasedreform

✔ Schedule II delegation ✔ Delegation from 4 to 7 PAs ✔ Unlimited delegation in hospitals A Sen. Jane Nelson & Rep. Lois Kolkhorst

2013

• HB2080–HandicapPlacardsinallSettings A Sen. Carlos Uresti & Rep. Tracy King

• HB2098–AllowsPAstoformpartnership/corporation/professionalassociationand/orlimitedliabilitycompanieswiththeirphysician

A Rep. John Davis & Sen. Dan Patrick

• HB1720–AllowsPrescribingofPrivateDutyNursing/PT/OT&SpeechTherapywhendelegatedbyaphysician

A Rep. John Davis & Sen. Dan Patrick

• HB2703–AllowsPhysicianstodelegateauthorityofPAstoprescribethefabrication,adjustment&fittingofprosthetics&orthotics

✔ Medicaid and private insurance A Rep. Vicki Truit & Sen. Carlos Uresti

2011

• SB1984–HandicapPlacard ✔ First time PAs can write for prescription handicap placards, rural counties only A Sen. Carlos Uresti & Rep. Tracy King

• SB532–PrescriptiveAuthorityChanges ✔ Refills to 90 days ✔ Delegation from 3 to 4 PAs ✔ Waivers for mileage, supervision, & on-site requirements A Sen. Dan Patrick & Rep. Garnet Coleman

• SB292–TexasPhysicianHealthPlan ✔ Better way to monitor impaired physicians and PAs A Sen. Jane Nelson & Rep. Susan King

2009

• SB419(SunsetBill)–AuthorizedthecontinuationoftheTexasStateBoardofPAExaminers

A Sen. Jane Nelson & Rep. Burt Solomons

• HB1577–UtilizationofPAsinadeclareddisaster,providesimmunitytoPAsinthatsetting

A Rep. Joe Nixon & Sen. Kyle Janek

2005

• HB2498–PhysicianAssistantLicensingAct ✔ Creates PA advisory council ✔ Established licensure for PAs ✔ Establishes supervision requirements ✔ Created the Rural PA Loan Reimbursement Program A Rep. Hugo Berlanga & Sen. Steve Carriker

1993

• TexasPAsarerecognizedbystatuteasRegisteredHealthCareProfessionals1991

• HB18–OmnibusHealthCareRescueAct ✔ Enabled PAs to work under direct supervision of a physician A Rep. Mike McKinney & Sen. Chet Brooks

1989

• CreationofPhysicianAssistantAdvisoryCommitteetotheTexasStateBoardofMedicalExaminers1981

• HB1095–ScheduledPrescriptiveAuthority ✔ Prescription authority expanded to include Schedules III - V A Rep. Jaime Capelo & Sen. Jane Nelson

2003

• FirstlawrecognizingPhysicianAssistantsinTexas1979

• SB1166–AlternateSiteRequirements ✔ Allowing PAs to be able to prescribe outside the primary practice site. A Sen. Frank Madla & Rep. Jaime Capelo

• SB1264–ScopeofPracticeofaPAactinginaDelegatedPractice

✔ Agent language added, designating the PA as the agent of the physician A Sen. Tom Haywood & Rep. David Farabee

2001

LegislativeHistory