Minnesota’s physician assistant professions are experiencing unprecedented growth, making them one of the fastest growing industries in the state. Ranking fourth among all occupations, these roles are projected to grow by a remarkable 43.5 per cent from 2009 to 2019. According to last year’s data, the state employed 1,620 physician assistants, who earned an average salary of $94,820. For individuals driven by a career goal to promote health and wellness, understanding how to become a physician assistant in Minnesota could be a rewarding pursuit.
Step 1: Selecting the Right Physician Assistant Program for Licensure in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to several graduate PA programs across the state, but finding the right fit is ultimately up to the individual student. Most programs require applicants to have a competitive Graduate Records Examination (GRE) score and significant hours of hands-on clinical experience. A bachelor’s degree is essential, although the following majors may exempt students from additional PA prerequisites:
- Public Health;
- Pre-med;
- Nursing;
- Biology;
- Medical Assistant.
It’s also important to confirm that the PA program you choose is accredited by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Graduation from an ARC-PA-accredited program is required to legally practice as a physician assistant in Minnesota.
Step 2: Clearing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE)
The PANCE, facilitated by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA), accredits students with the Physician Assistant-Certified (PA-C) credential upon successful completion. This computer-based exam consists of 300 multiple-choice questions to be answered within a five-hour timeframe.
Aspiring PA-C’s can register for the PANCE as early as three months before their PA degree program concludes. The registration fee is $475. The exam primarily focuses on different organ systems and related disorders. It tests the students’ abilities on several fronts, such as:
- Conducting physical examinations;
- Implementing clinical interventions;
- Diagnosing the most plausible conditions;
- Prescribing appropriate medication;
- Operating lab and diagnostic studies.
The best way to begin this journey is by thoroughly understanding these steps and carefully examining their prerequisites. Both, selecting the right PA program and preparing for the PANCE, require diligent planning and persistent effort. After successfully completing these steps, you will be well on your way to becoming a licensed Physician Assistant in Minnesota. Remember, every step brings you closer to making a significant impact in healthcare. Your dedication today will translate into enhanced health and wellness for your community tomorrow.
Step 3. Apply for Licensure in Minnesota
Once you have passed the PANCE, you can apply for licensure. The Minnesota Board of Medical Practice oversees the licensure process for PAs in the state. The following are the requirements for obtaining a PA license in Minnesota:
- Completion of an accredited PA program;
- Passing score on the PANCE;
- Submission of a completed application and fee;
- Background check and fingerprinting;
- Verification of any previous or current licenses held in other states.
It is important to note that Minnesota does not have specific continuing education requirements for PAs, but it is recommended to stay up-to-date with medical advancements and attend conferences or workshops to maintain knowledge and skills.
Step 4. Maintain the Minnesota PA License
To maintain your PA license, you must renew it every two years. The renewal process includes completing a certain number of continuing education hours, which can be obtained through various activities such as attending conferences, participating in online courses, or publishing articles in medical journals. The current requirement is 50 hours of continuing education every two years, with at least 20 hours in Category I (formal educational programs) and no more than 30 hours in Category II (informal educational activities).
Renewal Fees
The fee for renewing a PA license in Minnesota is $150. However, if you fail to renew your license on time, there is a late fee of $50. It is essential to keep track of your license expiration date and submit your renewal application and fee before the deadline to avoid any additional fees or potential suspension of your license.
Conclusion
As you embark on your journey to become a Physician Assistant in Minnesota, remember that it’s more than a career; it’s a lifelong commitment to learning, growth, and the well-being of your community. From choosing the right PA program, to passing the PANCE, to obtaining and maintaining your Minnesota PA license, each step is a milestone on the path to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. This journey is rigorous but rewarding, and Minnesota’s healthcare landscape awaits your valuable contribution. So treat each challenge as a stepping stone to a fulfilling career that leaves a lasting impact.
