Currently, there are over 8,000 Physician Assistants (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) practicing in the field of dermatology. However, a significant portion of them remain uncertified. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of certification, its benefits, and the process of getting certified.
Importance of Certification
Being certified means that you have demonstrated your knowledge and clinical competence in the field of dermatology. It validates your expertise and commitment to your specialty field, enhancing patient care and earning power. According to the NCCPA website, CAQ recipients have reported numerous benefits, including:
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Over 75% found or anticipate finding a new job
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Over 40% successfully sought a promotion
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60% achieved or expect to increase their job responsibilities
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Over 50% received or anticipate receiving a pay increase, and 33% received a cash bonus
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Over 75% found the CAQ useful in documenting qualifications required for external accreditation
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Over 33% achieved or anticipated a broadening of their eligibility for reimbursement
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Almost 75% have received greater recognition or regard from physicians or other healthcare professionals
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66% reported greater respect or acceptance from patients
How to Get Certified:
For PAs
The National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) offers a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in dermatology. To sit for the certification exam, a PA must:
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Earn a minimum of 75 credits of Category I CME focused on dermatology, with a minimum of 25 of those credits having been earned within two years prior to the date of exam application
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Complete a Dermoscopy course for a minimum of 5 credits
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Have 4000 hours of practice experience in the 6 years prior to applying to take the exam
The exam costs $350, consists of 125 questions, and must be retaken every 10 years.
For NPs
The Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Certification Board (DNPCB) offers certification for NPs. To sit for the certification exam, an NP must:
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Have a Master's or Doctoral degree in nursing
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Have current NP state licensure
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Have national certification as an NP
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Have a minimum of 3,000 hours of recent dermatology NP practice (within the last 3 years) with current practice in dermatology
The exam costs $400, consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, and individuals must recertify every 3 years. Options for recertification include re-examination or completion of 60 hours of dermatology-specific continuing education every 3 years.
In conclusion, dermatology certification is essential for PAs and NPs to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to their specialty field. With numerous potential benefits, including increased job opportunities, pay increases, and recognition, certification is a valuable investment in one's career. By following the requirements and process outlined above, PAs and NPs can take the first step toward becoming certified in dermatology.
Matthew Brunner, PA-C, is a dermatology PA at Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center in Stockbridge, GA. When he isn't busy working, he enjoys traveling with his spouse and relaxing with his three dachshunds.
Veronica Richardson, ANP-BC, DCNP, is a dermatology-certified nurse practitioner at the Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, PA. She sees general dermatology patients and has a passion for NP/PA education. Outside of work, she enjoys trying out new restaurants in Philly and paddle boarding in the Poconos. She and her husband love to spoil their doggies, Georgia & Tika.
