This week on The PA Is In, we’re going behind the scenes of my experience with the PANRE-LA, the NCCPA’s longitudinal recertification exam. After recertifying the “old-school” way eight years ago — one long test, one long day, one giant burst of stress — I decided to try something totally different this cycle.
In this episode, I’m sharing why I chose the PANRE-LA, how the experience compares to the traditional PANRE, and what it’s actually like to be four quarters into the eight-quarter process. If you’re approaching your own recertification window — or just curious about how the PANRE-LA works — this is your honest, unfiltered look at the inside of the process.
Inside this episode:
The biggest differences between the PANRE and the PANRE-LA (and why the 10-year cycle matters)
Why I originally said no way to the PANRE-LA
What changed my mind as a practicing PA, parent of five, and business owner
My real-time lessons learned after completing four quarters
How to avoid unnecessary stress and set yourself up for success
Why this exam format better reflects modern clinical practice
Quarterly deadlines you need to know: March 10, June 10, Sept 10, Dec 10
I’m sharing exactly how I schedule my questions, how I use (and don’t overuse) reference materials, what I’ve learned from the questions I missed, and why pacing makes the biggest difference in this process.
Whether you’re a fan of the all-at-once testing experience or you want something more flexible, I hope this episode gives you clarity, peace, and a sense of what’s possible for your own recertification season.
If you’ve taken — or are considering — the PANRE-LA, come tell me about your experience on LinkedIn or Instagram. I’d genuinely love to hear.
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