Perceptions of U.S. Physician Assistants (PAs) regarding implementation of a specialty certification

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to obtain opinions from practicing PAs concerning their knowledge about specialty certification and perceptions about its impact on their practice. This cross-sectional study involved a survey sent to a randomized sample of 3,000 U.S. PAs. Results were analyzed using descriptive and chi-square statistics. The response rate was 11% (n=293). The survey collected respondent demographic information, asked two categorical questions regarding knowledge of specialty certification, and several questions regarding perceptions about certification based on a 5-point Likert scale. Results suggest that although PAs are knowledgeable about the specialty certification issue, the majority do not plan to obtain the certification if offered and view it as a potential barrier to movement between specialties.