Student Performance Metrics and the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam ® : A 3-Year Multi-Institutional...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Physician Assistant Studies

Background:

• The 2019 Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE) blueprint update necessitates analysis of student performance metrics and PANCE scores.
• Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant (ARC-PA) Standards require ongoing self-assessment, including PANCE analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between PANCE scores and student performance metrics/attributes.
• To provide data critical for PA program development and learner preparation.

Main Methods:

• A multi-institutional study involving 3 PA programs.
• Multiple linear regression analysis to predict PANCE scores.
• Inclusion of metrics such as PAEA End of Rotation exams, PACKRAT scores, academic performance, GPA, and demographic attributes.

Main Results:

• A significant regression equation was identified (r-square = 0.709).
• Clinical Medicine II didactic course grades, PACKRAT I & II scores, and PAEA End of Rotation Exam scores (Family Medicine, Internal Medicine) were significant predictors of PANCE scores.

Conclusions:

• This research is timely and necessary given the limited existing studies post-PANCE blueprint update.
• The findings are critical for PA programs to enhance curriculum and improve learner outcomes.
• Data supports ongoing program self-assessment and optimization of student preparation for the PANCE.