PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)

The PANCE is a computer-based exam required for licensure as a Physician Assistant (PA) in the United States. Here's a breakdown of its syllabus and pattern:

Syllabus:

The PANCE syllabus is divided into seven main content areas, with varying percentages of exam questions:
⚫ Medical Foundations (18%): Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacology
⚫ Behavioral Science (8%): Communication, Ethics, Cultural Competency, Mental Health, Social Determinants of Health
⚫ Emergency Medicine (12%): Trauma, Resuscitation, Acute Care, Toxicology
⚫ Surgery (12%): General Surgery, Orthopedics, Otolaryngology, Urology, Neurosurgery
⚫ Internal Medicine (25%): Cardiology, Pulmonary, Gastroenterology, Hematology/Oncology, Endocrinology, Rheumatology, Nephrology
⚫ Family Medicine (15%): Primary Care, Preventive Medicine, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Women's Health
⚫ Public Health and Preventive Medicine (10%): Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Community Health, Preventive Services

Pattern:
⚫ Format: Computer-based multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with single best answer and some image-based questions
⚫ Number of questions: 300
⚫ Test duration: 5 hours, divided into 5 blocks of 60 minutes each with 10-minute breaks in between
⚫ Scoring: Pass/Fail, scaled score based on item difficulty
⚫ Minimum passing score: Not publicly disclosed, but statistically around 65%

Additional Resources:
⚫ National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA): https://www.nccpa.net/
⚫ PANCE Blueprint: https://www.nccpa.net/
⚫ NCCPA Practice Exams: https://www.nccpa.net/

Tips for Preparing for the PANCE:
⚫ Start early and develop a study schedule.
⚫ Familiarize yourself with the NCCPA blueprint and focus on high-yield topics.
⚫ Use high-quality study materials like textbooks, review courses, and practice questions.
⚫ Take practice exams under timed conditions to simulate the real test experience.
⚫ Focus on understanding concepts, not just memorizing facts.
⚫ Join a study group or find a study partner for support and accountability.
⚫ Manage your stress and get enough sleep on test day.

Remember, passing the PANCE is a significant achievement and opens doors to a rewarding career as a Physician Assistant in the United States. Good luck with your preparations!