Relationship Between Physician Assistant Program Length and Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination Pass Rates

Abstract

The results of this study suggest that shorter length PA programs perform similarly to longer programs in preparing students to pass the PANCE. In light of rapid expansion of PA educational programs, educators may want to consider these findings when planning the length of study for new and established programs.

Association Between Stress and Program Length in Underrepresented Minority Physician Assistant Students

“…Some medical schools have shortened their programs to decrease institutional and student costs. 11 Although there are more than 250 PA programs in the United States, there have been no studies on the relationship between program length and stress measures in students. This study investigated whether an association exists between program length and emotional and physical well-being, specifically exploring the effect of program length on underrepresented (UR) in medicine PA students.…”

“…One study found no difference in Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) pass rates based on program length. 11 Longer programs may increase student costs, heighten faculty workload and clinical rotation placement stressors, and delay the entry of qualified providers into the field where they are needed to care for aging, ill, and underserved populations. 11 Shorter PA programs can more efficiently produce graduate PAs, without wasting financial resources.…”

“…11 Longer programs may increase student costs, heighten faculty workload and clinical rotation placement stressors, and delay the entry of qualified providers into the field where they are needed to care for aging, ill, and underserved populations. 11 Shorter PA programs can more efficiently produce graduate PAs, without wasting financial resources. Some medical schools have shortened their programs to decrease institutional and student costs.…”