Blog

New York Programs for Physician Assistant Licensure

Annabelle
Close-up of a doctor reviewing documents with a laptop beside them

Steps to Become a Licensed Physician Assistant in New York

In New York, the health landscape presents unique challenges, including a relatively lower risk of mortality from cancer, stroke, and respiratory diseases but a higher risk for heart disease, the leading cause of death both statewide and nationally. This issue is exacerbated by the high prevalence of smoking—nearly 20% of New Yorkers—and an overweight and obesity rate of 62% that continues to climb. Physician assistants (PAs) play a crucial role in addressing these health concerns, offering diagnoses, prescribing medications, and monitoring patient treatment progress. PAs work with a diverse clientele, from newborns to the elderly, and their responsibilities include:

  • Stitching up wounds;
  • Collaborating with technical staff;
  • Providing assistance during surgeries;
  • Ordering diagnostic tests;
  • Conducting physical examinations.
A medical professional typing on a white keyboard in a clinic

For those interested in joining this vital field in New York, the following steps outline the process to become a licensed physician assistant:

  • Explore Accredited Physician Assistant Programs in New York for Licensure Preparation;
  • Earn the NCCPA Certification;
  • Submit Your Application for Licensure in New York;
  • Regularly Renew Your PA License.

Securing a New York Physician Assistant License is the first step for those interested in specialized areas like emergency medicine, where physician assistants are crucial in providing urgent medical care.

Step 1: NY Physician Assistant Programs for Licensure

Launching a professional journey as a certified physician assistant in New York requires the foundational step of graduating from an accredited PA program aligned with state educational standards. New York prescribes that qualified programs incorporate a minimum of 32 semester hours in classroom instruction and a minimum of 1,600 hours of clinical practice, which typically spans 40 weeks. It’s critical for these programs to hold accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA). Currently, New York is home to over 20 PA programs that have received ARC-PA’s endorsement.

Prospective students should ensure they meet the entry requirements for their chosen PA program. Common prerequisites include a minimum amount of prior clinical experience, successful completion of the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), and possession of an undergraduate degree. Specifically, degrees in science-related fields are beneficial as they fulfill some of the prerequisite courses for PA programs. Relevant majors include but are not limited to: 

  • Health Sciences;
  • Anatomy;
  • Pre-Medicine;
  • Medical Assisting;
  • Nursing;
  • Public Health.

Step 2: NCCPA Certification for NY PA License

Achieving certification from the NCCPA is a critical step for those embarking on a career as a Physician Assistant in New York. To earn the PA-C designation, candidates must succeed in the PANCE, a computer-based, multiple-choice test offered four times a year across the country. This exam evaluates a candidate’s knowledge of human anatomy and various organ system disorders with a series of 300 questions. The NCCPA provides practice tests at a cost of $35 to help candidates prepare for the PANCE, which has a registration fee of $475.

Step 3: Applying for New York PA Licensure

The licensure journey begins with ensuring that your PANCE results are sent directly from the NCCPA to New York’s State Office of Professions. It’s equally important to coordinate the submission of your educational qualifications, including your PA degree and related transcripts. This step requires the educational institution to endorse and forward a completed Certification of Professional Education form on the applicant’s behalf. Following that, a thoroughly completed and officially notarized Licensure Application should be dispatched to the State Office of Professions. The application process is completed by including a payment of $115, which is the stipulated fee for handling the licensing procedures.

Step 4: Updating Your Pennsylvania License

Two healthcare workers discussing over a clipboard in a hospital

For those practicing as Physician Assistants (PA) in New York, it’s essential to note that PA licenses are issued with a validity of three years. The initial licensing period concludes on December 31st of the first odd-numbered year post-issuance. When it’s time for license renewal, PAs are required to forward a renewal form—addressed to the recorded address—accompanied by a renewal fee of $45, ensuring it’s done before the expiration date of December 31st. Furthermore, the renewal process may include meeting specific continuing medical education (CME) prerequisites, as mandated by the health commissioner. These educational requirements, if any, will be detailed within the renewal notification.  

Conclusion

Embarking on the path to becoming a Physician Assistant in New York is both fulfilling and challenging. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify this journey by providing a thorough roadmap, covering everything from the pivotal role of PAs in the state’s healthcare system to navigating the complexities of licensure and beyond. Aspiring PAs are encouraged to utilize this guide as a valuable resource throughout their pursuit of this rewarding career. 

Related Posts