Your comprehensive guide to understanding CAQ requirements and preparation.
Overview
The Physician Assistant Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) is offered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). The CAQ is a specialty credential designed for certified PAs who want to demonstrate advanced expertise in a specific medical or surgical specialty, such as Emergency Medicine, Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery, Orthopedics, Pediatrics, Psychiatry, or Hospital Medicine.
Eligibility Requirements
- Current NCCPA certification and active PA-C status.
- Possession of a valid and unrestricted PA license in at least one jurisdiction.
- Completion of at least 2,000 hours of specialty experience in the chosen field.
- Completion of Category I specialty CME credits relevant to the specialty.
- Procedures and Patient Case Experience: Documentation of specific procedures or patient care experience required for the specialty.
Specific eligibility criteria may vary by specialty. Review the NCCPA website for detailed information.
Exam Content
The CAQ exam assesses advanced knowledge and clinical skills in the chosen specialty. Exam content includes:
- Specialty-specific diagnosis and treatment guidelines.
- Advanced procedural skills relevant to the specialty.
- Critical decision-making and management strategies.
- Specialty-specific pharmacology, diagnostics, and interventions.
Core specialties available for CAQ certification:
- Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Hospital Medicine
- Nephrology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatrics
- Psychiatry
Each specialty has its own detailed blueprint, which can be accessed through the NCCPA website.
Registration Process
- Log in to the NCCPA portal using your account credentials.
- Select the CAQ specialty and complete the application process.
- Submit the required documentation for eligibility, including specialty experience, CME credits, and patient care records.
- Pay the application and exam fees.
- Receive your Authorization to Test (ATT) and schedule the exam with the designated testing provider.
For detailed steps and fees, visit the NCCPA website.
Preparation Tips
Effective preparation is key to earning the CAQ credential. Follow these tips:
- Review the specialty-specific CAQ blueprint to understand the exam structure and content areas.
- Complete CME activities that focus on advanced clinical knowledge and procedural skills in your specialty.
- Participate in specialty-focused workshops or simulations to improve procedural expertise.
- Utilize practice exams to become familiar with the question format and timing.
- Stay updated with the latest guidelines, standards of care, and evidence-based practices in your specialty.
- Create a study schedule that balances time between theoretical review and practical skill-building.