Understanding PANRE and PANCE
The Physician Assistant National Recertifying Exam (PANRE) and the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) are both critical assessments for PAs, but they serve different purposes. Knowing the key differences will help you prepare effectively.What is the PANCE?
The PANCE is the certification exam required for new physician assistants to obtain licensure. Key facts:- Administered by the NCCPA.
- Consists of 300 multiple-choice questions.
- Focused on general medical knowledge and clinical skills.
- Must be passed within six years of graduating from an accredited PA program.
What is the PANRE?
The PANRE is the recertification exam required for practicing PAs to maintain certification. Important details:- Administered by the NCCPA every ten years.
- Consists of 240 multiple-choice questions.
- Emphasizes core medical knowledge and recent clinical updates.
- Allows PAs to focus 60% of the exam on their area of practice.
Key Differences Between PANCE and PANRE
| Feature | PANCE | PANRE |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Initial Certification | Recertification |
| Number of Questions | 300 | 240 |
| Exam Format | Multiple-Choice | Multiple-Choice |
| Time Allotted | 5 Hours | 4 Hours |
| Eligibility | New Graduates | Practicing PAs |
How to Prepare for Each Exam
- PANCE: Focus on comprehensive medical knowledge and practice test-taking strategies.
- PANRE: Review high-yield core medical topics and recent guideline updates.
