Pathway to Becoming a Physician Assistant in Ohio
The need for healthcare professionals in Ohio is expected to significantly increase, with a particular focus on a 33 percent rise in demand for physician assistants from 2008 to 2018. By 2012, the state already had 2,070 licensed individuals in this profession, earning an average annual income of $89,800. This upward trend is likely to continue, fueled by the increasing percentage of Ohio residents aged 65 and over, which currently stands at 14.8 percent of the state’s population. For those interested in pursuing a career in this rapidly expanding field, the following comprehensive guide outlines the steps required to achieve certification and practice in Ohio:
- Meet the Requirements for Admission into Ohio’s Physician Assistant Licensure Programs;
- Acquire the PA-C Credential;
- Secure Licensure in the State of Ohio;
- Maintain and Renew Your Ohio PA License.
You may also like to explore additional steps in becoming a PA in Washington (WA).
Step 1. Start Your Path to a PA Career in Ohio
To embark on a career as a PA in Ohio, aspiring candidates must first meet a set of admission criteria for PA graduate programs. While these requirements can differ across institutions, they commonly encompass:
- Accumulating a specified number of direct patient care experience hours;
- Achieving a qualifying score on the GRE (Graduate Record Examination);
- Holding a bachelor’s degree in any field, although certain majors directly complement PA program prerequisites, including:
- Medical Assistant;
- Nursing;
- Health Sciences;
- Organic Chemistry;
- Psychology.
To be eligible for licensure by the Ohio State Medical Board, applicants are required to submit evidence of their educational background. This includes official transcripts from a PA graduate program or comparable advanced studies in a relevant discipline. Furthermore, it is critical that the academic institution where the studies were completed holds accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA).
Step 2. Earning Your PA-C Certification
The second step toward becoming a certified PA involves acquiring the PA-C (Physician Assistant-Certified) credential. This prestigious certification is awarded exclusively by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). To secure this certification, candidates must pass the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE), a comprehensive test designed to assess an applicant’s mastery of essential medical concepts and the functioning of vital organ systems. Registration for the PANCE, which costs $475, opens three months prior to the completion of a candidate’s PA program, and the exam is offered quarterly. To aid in preparation, the NCCPA offers sample exams at a fee of $35. The PANCE itself consists of 300 multiple-choice questions, administered via computer, to be completed within five hours.
Step 3. Securing a PA License in Ohio
To legally work as a PA in Ohio, individuals must apply for licensure through the State Medical Board of Ohio. The application process necessitates the submission of several documents, including:
- An Application for Certificate to Practice. One of the following:
- A transcript from a PA education program;
- Transcript of PA-related graduate-level coursework;
- Proof of PA licensure in another state or federal jurisdiction;
- Documentation of relevant military or other federal experience;
- Verification of the PA-C credential by the NCCPA.
- A comprehensive resume (a form is provided with the application);
- A non-refundable application fee of $200;
- Two character references, including one from a physician (reference forms are included with the application);
- After receiving a complete application, the State Medical Board of Ohio typically takes 10-12 weeks to process it.
Step 4. Renewing Your PA License in Ohio
In Ohio, to uphold their professional standing, Physician Assistants are required to undergo license renewal biennially, with the deadline set on January 31st of even years. This renewal procedure encompasses multiple stages, ensuring compliance and proficiency within the medical field.
- Completing a renewal application form;
- Paying a renewal fee of $100;
- Fulfilling a requirement of at least 100 hours of continuing medical education (CME).
The process of maintaining a Physician Assistant’s license in Ohio involves accumulating Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits, a requirement acknowledged by the Ohio State Medical Board for the renewal of credentials through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). This certification is crucial for Physician Assistants seeking to update their practicing license in the state. Additionally, committed to continuous professional development and adhering to licensing requirements, Physician Assistants are required to pass the Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE) every ten years.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey to become a licensed Physician Assistant in Ohio is demanding but fulfilling. The process involves completing PA graduate program prerequisites, earning the prestigious PA-C certification, obtaining and renewing state licensure—all demanding unwavering dedication. Despite the challenges, the rewarding career opportunities and the satisfaction of enhancing patient care make the effort valuable. With proper education and clinical experience, physician assistants are vital in meeting the healthcare demands of Ohio’s growing elderly community.
