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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 1 of 148
AGENDA
NCAPA Board of Directors Meeting
Saturday, April 23, 2016, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Stead Center, Durham, NC
Mission Statement:
NCAPA provides innovative solutions to empower our members to enhance their careers
and advocate for optimal health care.
Vision Statement: North Carolina PAs transforming health through equitable delivery
of patient-centered, team-based care.
Call to Order
Welcome and Introductions (Wanda Hancock)
Consent Agenda: (Wanda Hancock)
Does anyone request that any report be removed from the Consent agenda?
(Reports Included in the Consent Agenda are listed on Page 2 of this Agenda)
(Reports should be removed if any discussion about a report is requested. Any reports
remaining on the Consent Agenda will not be discussed at the meeting.)
Action: After any reports are removed (if requested) the Board must vote to approve the remaining
Consent Agenda.
Presentations:
Financial Review (Dawn Dees of Stancil & Company) (p. 3)
NCCPA Regulations (Peg Robinson) (p. 21)
Duke University (Julie McCracken, PA-S)
East Carolina University (Ryland Bradley, PA-S)
PA History Society Garden Restoration Project (Reg Carter and Lori Konopka-Sauer) (p. 30)
Action Item Reports:
Executive Committee (p. 36)
Communications & Marketing Committee (p.38)
Internal Audit Committee (p.39)
For Discussion:
House of Delegates (Wanda Hancock)
Survey Results: Draft NCCPA Position Statement (Wanda Hancock) (p. 40)
Speaking on behalf of the NCAPA (Wanda Hancock) (p. 92)
Announcements (Wanda Hancock)
NC Legislative Day June 15
PAPA Conference on October 15. NCAPA will host an evening social on Friday, October 14.
FWEA Conference on October 8
NCAPA Board Meeting on August 14 at Myrtle Beach noon to 4:00 pm
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For informational purposes:
Thank you from the North Carolina Medical Society Foundation (p. 147)
Thank you from Southminster for Dean Minton Memorial (p. 148)
Adjournment
Reports for Consent Agenda:
Minutes from January 23 BOD Meeting (p. 93)
Executive Director Report (p. 99)
Governance Task Force (p. 101)
Officer Reports:
President (p. 102)
Treasurer (p. 103)
Secretary (p. 110)
President-Elect (p. 111)
Vice President (p.112)
Immediate Past President (p.113)
Standing Committee Reports:
Continuing Education (p.114)
Finance (p. 117)
Government Affairs (p. 119)
Health (p. 122)
Membership (p. 126)
Nominating (p. 128)
Regional Chapters (p.129)
Student Affairs (p. 130)
Liaison Reports:
NCMB Review Panel (p. 131)
OEMS (p. 132)
NCPHP (p. 134)
Student Board Representative Reports:
Campbell (p. 136)
Duke (p. 137)
East Carolina (p. 138)
Gardner-Webb (p.139)
UNC Chapel Hill (p. 140)
Wake Forest (p. 141)
Wingate (p. 143)
PA Program Director Reports:
Campbell (p. 144)
Duke (p. 145)
Regional Chapter Reports
Piedmont Association of PAs (p. 146)
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Update on Plans to Upgrade the Veterans Memorial Garden
at the Stead Center in Durham, NC
April 5, 2016
Plan: The PA History (PAHx) Society and the NC Academy
of Physician Assistants (NCAPA) are working to expand and
upgrade the John McElligott Veterans Memorial Garden
located at the Eugene A. Stead, Jr. Center for Physician
Assistants in Durham, NC. The NCAPA provided space to the
PA History (PAHx) Society to establish the gardens in 2007
when a bronze statue of a medic bandaging the wounds of a
fallen soldier was gifted to the Society to remember the
contributions of former military corpsmen as pioneers of the
PA profession. In gratitude for his support to preserve the
history and legacy of our profession, the garden was dedicated
in honor of Dr. John McElligott on Veterans Day November
11, 2008. At that time, a flag pole was placed adjacent to the statue.
Current Status: Unlike the formal garden behind the Stead Center, the veterans memorial garden is not
enclosed within a gated fence (see photograph). A fence is needed for security. The flag pole is not
lighted at night preventing the flying of the flag 24 hour, 7 days per week. The garden plot needs to be
landscaped to remove overgrown shrubs and trees that block visitors view of the statue and flag pole and
to make room for additions to the garden, such as, a brick bench and patio area to display the names of
veterans who have become physician assistants, especially, the former military corpsmen who helped
pioneer the PA profession. A walkway from the formal gardens to the statue area is needed for
wheelchair accessibility.
Estimated Cost:
Preliminary estimates indicate that the project will cost $35,000 to landscape, fence in and light the statue
and flag pole in the veteran garden and an additional $30,000 will be needed to add a “place of
remembrance” to the garden with additional brick walls, walkways and lighting. Total cost of the project
is estimated to be $67,000 including landscaping design plans.
Steps Completed as of April 5, 2016:
1. The NCAPA Board of Directors have agreed to partner with the PAHx Society’s Board of
Trustees to place a gated fence around the garden; to light the flag pole; to landscape the garden
with addition of bench, walkways, and memorial area to display names of veteran PAs. The
Veterans Caucus Board has been notified that we plan to establish a “place of remembrance”
within the garden that would include names of PAs who are veterans.
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2. A design planning team with representation from the PAHx Society, the NCAPA and the AAPA
Veterans Caucus has worked closely with Julie Sherk, a professor at NC State University, and
her students to develop landscape designs for consideration. Twelve landscape students from
NCSU visited the Stead Center for brief orientation on January 11, 2016. They observed the area
and took measurements. Two more meetings have been held with students at the Stead Center:
(1) A stakeholder’s workshop on January 27 from 2-4 PM and (2) a student design presentation
session on February 10 from 2-4 PM. Students presented various design concepts that were
evaluated by planning team. Professor Julie Sherk then prepared a final design concept that has
been reviewed and approved by the planning committee and has been sent to the landscaping
firm to determine final construction cost.
3. A fundraising team has approved a strategic fundraising plan to solicit funds from individuals,
organizations and foundations. The first goal is to raise $35,000 to $40,000 (50% or more of
total needed) through personal contacts by April 15, 2016 followed by a more aggressive, public
campaign May through October, 2016. Having 50% of funds in hand by April 15th will assure
that work can begin in late summer and fall of 2016 to have the veteran garden ready when the
Society’s BOT meet at the Stead Center in April 2017, to celebrate its 15th anniversary and to
“kick off” the 50th Anniversary of the PA Profession. The veteran garden will be rededicated and
the focus will be on honoring the pioneering PAs who were mostly former military corpsmen or
veterans.
4. Over $25,000 has been raised to date with another $11,000 secured in pledges. So the
fundraising team is close to reaching its April goal of having at least 50% of funds in hand before
going public with the campaign in May.
5. The design and fundraising planning teams have decided to move forward with a “place of
remembrance” in the garden. They are exploring a “pay as you go” process that will ask
individuals to purchase either 12x12 or 8x8 inch engraved pavers to cover the area surrounding
the bronze combat medic statue and flagpole and the walkway leading to the memorial. They
can purchase pavers for themselves or for others they wish to honor. The cost of the engraved
pavers will cover all expenses associated with purchase, engraving and placement of bricks
within the garden.
Next Steps: 1. Julie Sherk’s final landscape design plan has been submitted to Myatt Landscaping for then to
give us a more detailed cost estimate by April 15, 2016.
2. Fundraising team has submitted additional names of individuals to contact personally to raise 50
to 60% of funds needed by April 15; remaining funds by August 2016.
3. Develop and implement purchase engraved paver campaign with PA veterans; install by October
2016 (first phase; continuing project thereafter).
4. Begin phase one landscaping late summer and fall 2016.
5. Develop plans to rededicate veterans’ garden in April 2017 when PAHx Society Board of
Trustees meet at the Stead Center to celebrate the Society’s 15th anniversary and launch the 50
th
anniversary of the PA profession.
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Landscape Design Concept by Julieta T. Sherk, RLA, ASLA, Associate Professor Department of Horticultural Science College of Agriculture and Life Sciences NC State University
Landscape Plot Design Concept for Veterans Garden at Stead Center:
Tax deductible check should be made out to the PA History Society for Veterans' Garden Project and sent
to:
Lori Konopka-Sauer
Managing Director
PA History Society
12000 Findley Road, Suite 160
Johns Creek, GA 30097
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Veterans Garden
Fundraising Strategies
PA History Society
Purpose: Landscape and upgrade the Veterans Garden at the Stead Center making it a relaxing, tranquil
place of remembrance for those who have served their country in the uniformed services and especially
the PAs who were former military corpsmen who pioneered the PA Profession.
Goal: Raise $60,000 to $65,000 by August 1, 2016
Design Plans and Cost Estimates: Final Design Concept will be available from Associate Professor
Julieta Sherk and NC State University Landscape Students mid-March at
https://cals.ncsu.edu/hort_sci/people/faculty/pages/sherk.php
Landscape Firm: Todd and Scott Myatt – Myatt Landscape Concepts, 217 Technology Park Ln, Fuquay
Varina, NC 27526 at http://www.myattlandscaping.com/index.asp
Fundraising Taskforce: Reginald Carter (Historian Emeritus & Chair); Lori Konopka-Sauer (Managing
Director); Maryann F. Ramos (Secretary/Treasuer); Robert Wooten (Trustee); Paul Hendrix (NCAPA
BOD) and Mike Milner (AAPA Veterans Caucus BOD) [others]
Fundraising Advisors: John McElligott (major donor); Don Pedersen (major donor); [others]
Strategies:
1. Personal Contact – send email with information about project to all current and past board members
of the PA History Society, NCAPA and AAPA Veteran Caucus soliciting their support with goal to
raise 50 to 65% of $65,000 prior to going public in April 2016. Also, ask them to solicit personally
individuals that they know who may want to contribute to the project. Completion Date April 1,
2016.
2. Develop list of organizations, foundation and corporate donors who contribute to veteran memorials
and send request letters with information (make personal contact if possible). Completion Date: April
1, 2016
3. Develop fundraising informational packets that can be mailed to prospective donors and distributed at
AAPA meeting in May. Completion Date: April 15, 2016
4. Place article in spring issue of Historical Happenings about project with information about how to
donate. Completion Date: April 15, 2016
5. Secure mailing list for all veteran PAs or Pioneering PAs and send them informational packet
requesting individual donations of $25, $50, $100, $250 and $500 donations. Completion Date: June
1, 2016
Engraved Brick or Personalized Tile Fundraiser – Develop logistical plan with AAPA Veterans Caucus to
invite veterans to purchase bricks or tiles to be placed in wall or walkway for themselves and others they
wish to honor – consider profit sharing ideas. Completion Date: October 1, 2016 (ongoing)
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 36 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Executive Committee Report April 23, 2016
Members:
Wanda Hancock, President and Chair
Truett Smith, President-Elect
Paul Hendrix, Treasurer
Marc Katz, Immediate Past President
Samantha Rogers, Vice President
Linda Sekhon, Secretary
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
The Executive Committee (EC) has met three times by zoom meeting since the last Board meeting—on
February 17 and March 9—and will have met again on April 13 by the time of the Board meeting.
Issues discussed by the EC included:
Internal Audit Committee
President Hancock proposed the following appointments based on NCAPA previously approved
composition, which was approved by the EC:
Chair: Alisha DeTroye
NCAPA Board Member: Secretary Linda Sekhon
Ryan Vann: NCAPA Chair of Finance Committee
Committee Charge by President Wanda Hancock:
-Identify Committee Purpose/ and appropriate composition for this committee moving forward or if these
functions are already incorporated into other NCAPA policy and procedures. The final report will be
presented in August 2016 to facilitate planning.
Financial Review
The financial review will be completed in early April. The EC requested that Dawn Dees from Stancil
and Company attend the April board meeting to present the results. Paul Hendrix reported on the financial
status of the NCAPA at each meeting.
Endowment
The NCAPA Endowment is in the process of reviewing its bylaws. Marc Katz is the representative to the
Endowment and is serving on the taskforce. There was discussion about the fundraiser usually held by
the Endowment during the Summer Conference. No definitive plans have been made. Since the NCAPA
typically supports the golf tournament sponsored by the Endowment, a motion was made and
unanimously approved to contribute $1,500.00 to the Endowment in support of the summer fundraiser.
Member Survey about NCCPA proposed Changes
In conjunction with the Marketing Committee, the EC drafted and administered a survey to Academy
members soliciting their input on the proposed re-certification changes. The survey results will provide
member input into the development of the NCAPA position statement on the NCCPA proposed changes.
This position will be presented at HOD. In addition, Ms. Peggy Robinson, NCCPA Trustee, will give a
presentation at the NCAPA April board meeting to present the proposed changes.
Executive Director Transition
The Executive Committee provided support and oversight to staff during the period between Cathie’s
departure and Emily Adams starting on March 21st. Executive Committee reviewed the terms of the new
ED contract. EC and staff directed the orientation of Ms. Adams during her first week. All financial
transitions have been completed.
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Ratifications by the Board via Electronic Vote since the January 2016 Board meeting:
HOD Resolution - Dr. Reamer Bushardt and Suzanne Reich drafted a resolution entitled "PA Self-
Governance and Accountability to the Public". The Executive Committee presented the resolution
electronically for a unanimous vote by the board of directors. Ms. Hancock signed the resolution and
submitted it. Each of the NCAPA House of Delegates were contacted for review and endorsement.
The EC Endorsement of Gail Curtis for President of AAPA - NCAPA Executive Committee unanimously
approved to send to the board for an electronic vote the endorsement of Gail Curtis for President of
AAPA.
Action Items: 1. The Executive Committee recommends a $1500 contribution to the Endowment to assist with
their fundraising efforts during 2016 summer conference. This funding will be come from the
Special Projects fund.
2. The EC makes a motion to contribute $5000 to the PA History Society for the Veterans Memorial
Garden. This funding will be allocated from the Special Projects fund and is considered to be an
investment in the restoration of the landscaping of the Center.
Plans for Future Activities:
Review and present the NCAPA letter of response to NCCPA on the position of the Academy on the
proposed changes.
The Executive Committee will continue to meet monthly on the 2nd
Wednesday via Zoom at 8pm.
The EC will review the 2016 strategic plan accountability document at the May meeting.
The EC will identify next steps for planning of the 50th Anniversary Celebration.
Respectfully submitted,
Wanda Hancock, PA-C
President NCAPA
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 38 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Communications and Marketing Committee Report April 23, 2016
2016 Members:
Co-Chairs: Don Metzger and Bowie Tran
Clifford Daub
Ken Harbert
Mary Elizabeth Horne
Truett Smith
Staff: Kat Nicholas
Survey:
The Communications and Marketing Committee was asked to create a survey to be sent to members
regarding the name Physician Assistant versus Physician Associate and whether a doctorate should be
required to be a PA. After the questions were created, it was realized that another survey was being
prepared by the Executive Committee regarding the newly proposed certification requirements. Kat
recommended combining the two surveys to get the best response rate. The survey was emailed to all
members on March 24th and closed on April 6
th. The information will be utilized by the Executive
Committee to inform them of members’ thoughts regarding topics that may arise at the AAPA HOD. The
survey was sent to over 1700 members and we had over 360 respondents, making it a 21% response rate –
which is great!
A general review of the results reveals that the majority of members do not think a doctorate is necessary,
they like the idea of Physician Associate, but admittedly feel that there are more important issues to
address, and of the proposed recertification changes, people are still struggling with the new SA/PI
requirements.
Legislative Day:
The CMC has also ordered a promotional give away item for PA Legislative Day. We will have ballpoint
pens that also have stylus and highlighter functions with the NCAPA logo.
PR Brochure:
Kat is drafting a brochure to be distributed to external stakeholders, beginning with the legislators at the
PA Legislative Day on June 15th. The goal is to inform these stakeholders about the history of the
profession, promote the value of PAs in healthcare, and introduce NCAPA. These brochures will be
general enough that they can be distributed for many years. Kat has received a cost estimates for the final
design of $850 from Michelle Vicarro at New Dawn Design and a cost estimate of approximately $600
for printing 1000 copies of the brochure from Laser Image. The CMC is seeking approval of these funds
from the Special Projects Fund. (See Action Item below)
Next Steps:
The CMC will be working with Kat and the Membership Committee to create a survey to be sent to all
members in June regarding their satisfaction with NCAPA, being a member, and any professional
development ideas they might have. The survey will be emailed out to all members by June 30th.
Action Item:
The CMC recommends the approval of $1450 from the Special Projects Fund to be used towards the final
design and printing of a brochure focused towards external stakeholders.
Respectfully submitted,
Don Metzger, PA-C, MHS and Bowie Tran, PA-C
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 39 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Internal Audit Committee Report April 23, 2016
2016 Members: Alisha DeTroye, Chair
Members: Linda Sekhon, Ryan Vann
Staff: Sally Paille
Stancil and Company provided a financial review which was initially reviewed for accuracy by myself,
executive director Emily Adams, treasurer Paul Hendrix, finance committee chair Ryan Vann, and
accountant David Dew. Once all members of the audit review committee per policy had a chance to
review for accuracy, the report was sent to the Internal Audit committee for review. The committee feels
that the financial review is accurate and complete. Stancil and Company will provide their full financial
review to the board on April 23rd
and allow members time to ask questions.
Action Items:
The Internal Audit committee recommends the board of directors accepts the financial review as
prepared.
The Internal Audit committee recommends a repeat financial review in one year with plans for a full audit
at a 3 year interval.
Respectfully submitted,
Alisha DeTroye, MMS, PA-C
2016 Internal Audit Committee Chair
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MEMBERSHIP SURVEY
April 2016
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We are very interested in your point of view. Please share your constructive
comments regarding the proposed recertification changes:
having more specialized tests for re-certification takes away form the main focus of being a PA,
which is being trained as a general practitioner to be able to be versatile in the medical field. I do
not believe we should take that away form our title as a PA. I also think being knowledgeable and
educated in all specialties of medicine can only benefit us as providers and also our patients. The
more we are educated on, the better providers we can be. Ultimately this change would limit our
scope of practice and change the meaning of being a PA
I think having a general recertification process keeps us as generalists and allows us the flexibility
to switch specialties. If we continue down the road of residencies and specialty recertification
only, we lose our employment flexibility.
Just don't make it more complicated. Changes in medicine are complicated enough to keep up
with.
It makes sense if most PAs are practicing in specialties to test them on their specialty. I am
curious as to how much depth of material will be covered per specialty. For example, if I worked
8 years in cardiology and then switched to ortho for 2 years and it is time for me to re-certify, will
I be taking an ortho exam even if I'm still sort of training in that field? And will the depth of the
material and level of difficulty for a specialty exam be the same level of difficulty as the general
exam for a general practitioner?
I think it's important to keep recertification general- I think this is necessary if PAs are moving
between specialties during their careers
I think creating specialty focused examinations will defeat the purpose of making PAs broad-
based clinicians; specialization will make it harder for clinicians to move from one area of
medicine to another.
If specialty recertification exams are implementing, it will restrict the flexibility of the profession.
The ability to switch specialties is a major benefit of choosing the PA profession.
I think it would be helpful to either have more specialty focused exams, or the option to have
open book primary care exams. Due to the nature of most specialties, a lot or the primary care
medicine is not practiced every day in those of us who are specialized.
I do like that idea of open book tests, I'm just concerned about the total amount of time
commitment that this will take in addition to the specialty focused exam.
Would rather test more often than do a self enhancement project.... To me just seems like a waste
of my time
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I feel specialty exams are more patient-centered and reflective of our day-to-day experiences as
providers.
Its too time consuming and costly in todays market to try and manage all of the recertifications.
After passing the PANCE no panre should be required because so few PAs even work in primary
care. but also specialty exams should not exist because it will inhibit the lateral mobility PAs
currently have
I am a gen surg PA who uses my CME requirement to learn and study surgery. My recertification
is when I study and refresh all the general medicine topics that as a PA I should study and know.
It is my responsibility to consistently study and I don't need more check boxes added of exams
and tests that may or may not benefit me in order to make me look better on paper. If PAs need to
improve in an area of practice or quality etc ... Then tell us the data and don't just add more to our
to do list!! Keep the generalist component so that we are competent in general practice ready to
perform as we are initially qualified to do so!
To summarize my thoughts briefly: The changes are a colossal waste of time, will only serve to
confuse the recertification process more, and will not have the effect the NCCPA thinks it will.
Not sure yet as a student.
PAs pride themselves on being able to specialize in different fields, however many who choose a
specialty chose not to change specialties. Such should not be required to re-certify until they
decide to pursue a different specialty. For family medicine, I believe re-certification is necessary.
I think that the NCCPA is making too many changes too quickly without validating the changes.
It seems like they should consider adding the specialty exams first.
I do not feel I am informed enough to make constructive comments at this time.
I believe the open book recertification exams are realistic given the use of uptodate regularly
A Psych CAQ is becoming required with pay bonus for my area of practice since NPs are already
required to be PNPs. Would like NOT to have to take General and CAQ each time.
I would suggest certain required CMEs during a 2 year cycle that cover several topics that are
frequently seen and treated with updates on best treatment and diagnosis option
I think open book testing with the ability to self learn works quite effectively (I went to Wake,
and we did a lot of problem based learning - that style works well for me to learn from mistakes)
The proposed recertification changes by the NCCPA are overkill and add too much certification
time and cost requirements to the average PA to have to attain or give up.
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If we change models, what happens to PAs in specialties that are not represented in the pathways
(like heme/onc)?
I believe with the SA/PI requirements already in place this places a large time as well as financial
burden for us to fulfill and with the proposed periodic take home exams I am afraid that this
would place and even bigger burden for us without really benefitting the PA's in terms of
retainable and clinical/practice relevant knowledge
There is no option to state that we have negative opinions regarding the proposed recertification
changes, only "most" and "least" beneficial, needs to be an option for "not beneficial"
I think at home exams would better reflect the way PA profession functions and reflect better the
daily ability to access resources and conduct research as the patients are evaluated
I think the generalist exam is important for PAs being seen as flexible and knowledgeable on a
wide variety of topics. While I think remediation would be convenient, and hopefully cost-
effective, I worry it will demote our standing in the eyes of other medical professionals. I do find
the QI and SA CME requirements to be cumbersome and expensive so I feel these should be
revisited.
Ongoing open-book test that PAs have to complete ensure regular continuing education in "bite-
size" pieces, so even specialty PAs can stay up to date on new developments and maintain
proficiency. This would actually be the perfect solution because it ensures PAs are completing
CME while submitting the results shows that they maintain proficiency
It is probably going to be quite expensive to develop. Am not in favor of a VERY expensive
exam. We already spend much $$$$ on CME. Unnecessary.
I believe recertification is a good thing and our physician colleagues have boards. I can
understand how PAs in specialty practice feel a general examination is not pertinent and how
some PAs are concerned taking specialty examinations will limit them. I believe a 10 year cycle
is fine. I would recommend PAs be able to take an examination of either general / primary care
knowledge or one that is specialized like ortho, surgery, psychiatry or dermatology. If a PA
chooses to specialize they can choose either examination to suit their needs. I'm not sure we need
to make everyone take a general test of primary care knowledge if they do not practice in that
setting. Let PAs choose if they want to take a general test or one pertinent to their specialty.
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I do not agree with the proposed changes the recertification nor do I agree with the already made
changes regarding SI/PI. I do not think that at home test (and open book) every 2 years are
beneficial in assessing medical knowledge. In addition, this only adds to an already packed
workload that comes with out jobs. I feel that all PAs are held responsible for maintaining a
broad range of medical knowledge (i.e. just because you work in oath doesn't mean you don't
have to know how to treat an AMI, that goes against what the PA profession is about) I would
much rather keep the recertification process as is, including the old CME requirements. I do not
feel that the SA/PI requirements are a worthwhile investment either. I know of someone who has
already completed an AAPA approved SI and found it worthless. In addition, the NCAPA cannot
adequately explain or provide information regarding these requirements so it is disappointing that
these changes have already been implemented and required of others. I have discussed the
above changes with numerous physicians that have all described this as similar to the changes
ABIM made years ago. They did not listen to the physicians concerns or complaints and had to
come back in 2015 and suspend changes because it did not work and physicians were not pleased.
I forsee this being a similar process and only deterring people from entering our profession or the
older generation not renewing their certifications given increased demands.
I find open book tests to be cumbersome and don't allow me to retain knowledge because there is
no studying involved. I think it is dangerous and detrimental to the PA career to only focus on
proctored specialty exams because PAs are supposed to be proficient in all general medicine. It
raises many questions about how easily and effectively PAs would change specialties in the
future. It strikes me as a threat to the "well rounded" nature of PA
I believe the frequent open book testing would be very beneficial as a way to stay current.
However I believe having a "specialty-focused" exam steers away from the idea of PA as a
general practitioner.
Q 10 yrs closed book on your specialty/field of practice + open book all else q 10 yrs
As a student, I have not gotten to the point where the recertification process directly affects me.
But I was very much a fan with the profession moved from a 6 to a 10 yr recertification.
Taking a general medicine exam every 10 years is not very meaningful to those in specialty care
(especially in surgical specialties as I am). Regular open book exams would ensure that I am
keeping up on general medical principles. Specialty-specific testing every 10 years would be
more appropriate and meaningful to the public regarding my specific skill set and knowledge
base. I really like the idea of feedback being provided for questions missed. This further
contributes to the learning process
I think a broad based exam is crucial to the fluid identity of PAs and is a huge reason of why I
applied to PA school. I want to ensure that PAs are able to be tested on a broad variety of
subjects. This is because I think that broad testing will protect the ability of PAs to move between
specializations.
As a student, the idea of a remediation process is indeed interesting. Also, I think it is important
to maintain certification as a PA-C as being generalist in nature, but have the ability to take
specialty-related exams for CAQ if the individual so desires.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 68 of 148
The increase in testing will only increase the stress of the recert process while increasing the cost
to the average PA
I feel like it is adding more to an already complicated process.
There are too many changes at one time. This can lead to PA's not maintaining their proper
certification based on the confusion. The CME change seems to be motivated by money and the
constant need for CME funds. Our profession was flexible and now we are pigeon holing
ourselves with "specialty" testing. This is not what we were created for in the first place.
We should be allowed to continue with CMEs and Book related exams more focused on out
specific work related field .NPs take their exam once .In today's stressful market we seldom have
the time to study for a recertification exam and do our jobs and have any type work life balance .
I feel coming fresh out of school when all you've done is study is when you should take your
boards. We really never graduate it's like we are life long residents 😊
I have stated this for years. T%he test doesn't not test my clinical ability. It is a test more of my
test taking abilities. The items on the test questions in general as a practitioner leave you wanting
more information. The desired information is the information I obtain daily on a HPI and exam .
I consider my self a very knowledgeable practitioner with experience in FP, Orthopedics,
Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, Pain Management, and now Urgent Care Younger PA's
constantly seek me out for advice on their patients. However I have never felt good after taking
any of the examinations. Additionally moving it to ten years , I truly believe it will be harder to
pass.
There should be an end point. After having 20 plus years of practice experience and an
unblemished record, it is a waste of time and money to continually have to retake the test.,
The PI requirements seem unclear.
I have practiced for 13 years and saw no problem with the previous recertification process. I
haven't yet started to review the changes, but have now entered the first calendar year of my two
year cycle. From what I understand, the self-assessment is a time commitment that involves other
providers in the workplace, and as I have read it does nothing to improve my ability to practice as
a PA.
I feel that testing should be open book if you are going to test in all the different fields; I have
worked in pediatrics for 24 years; I am stressed about taking the PANRE next year. I did all take
home tests up to this point and did learn alot; please make these changes; I thing they will
benefit those of us who have stayed in one field.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 69 of 148
some of these questions do not have enough choices. I preferred the 6 yr cycle with the exam at
the end of 6 yrs and the CME maintenance the way it was before the 10 yr change. I have not
been provided data that supports the PI/SA helps in anyway, not have I figured out why only
those approved by the AAPA in some cases are allowed. that is why I did not answer #10-no
appropriate choice
I am currently a non-practicing PA. I was not very happy to learn of the new performance
improvement requirement, particularly since the only options for CE were relevant only to those
in practice. I called the NCCPA and asked what I was supposed to do as someone not practicing.
I was told that at SOME point, there will be some options developed for me. I am frankly very
disappointed! I again checked to see what options were available for non-practicing PAs and
only found 1 CE activity that I would be charged $250 for. It has to do with patient safety. As
someone not practicing, how is this relevant to me??? There needs to be some serious discussion
around what requirements make sense for those practicing and not practicing because the current
requirement is ridiculous.
Taking hours to research answers to an open book test does not validate my clinical competence
I have worked in GYN since graduation over 20 yrs ago and plan on staying in this field.
Spending time studying other specialities to pass certification does not help my daily practice or
competency.
I am open to open testing model but while it is likely good for a review it may not really test any
knowledge
I am not clear on all the recertification changes but I think open book testing would be good as
we all use books, internet to help with diagnosis and medications and testing required to evaluate
symptoms and condition
At the time of taking this survey, I admittedly have not delved into these current recertification
changes. It is difficult for me to opine over this not having all the information.
We are given the opportunity to change specialties and that is a benefit. I believe the new changes
would put us at a disadvantage if we wanted to change jobs/ specialties.
Having just entered into the 10 year cycle (2014) - I have yet to see how the revised
recertification process offers any benefit over the original 6 year recertification process. That
said, the proposed changes sound even more to me as just a checklist of things a busy PA has
even less time for. Testing more frequently isn't a measure of public protection or really for
increased knowledge for the PA. It is just a surge of effort in order to meet the requirements to
maintain a license. I found our original 6 year process with enough time to clinically practice and
focus on continuing education and then head into a strong focus for a generalist exam. The 10-
year process may be similar although so far, I have not found the SA process to be any different
in value than the normal CME process.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 70 of 148
We haven't even validated the value (or lack of) of SA and PI-CME. Moving into this new area
without compelling data is ridiculous. The constant corporate back talk NCCPA pushes every
time a criticism is made suggests they have defaulted on their integrity. It's unfortunate.
I believe the current process 6YR is fine. I think general core knowledge review and testing
allows more flexibility during professional life. I believe the process changes favor
subspecialization, the way NPs profession is, and this is a reason why I chose to become a PA.
PAs already have much more rigorous CME, and testing requirements than NPs. I do not think
subspecialization is a benefit. It will only limit us in practice and career path.
I think NCCPA has provided a thoughtful approach to the proposed plan, and have been
transparent in their plans for changing the process. I believe the logic behind their
recommendations are sound, and they truly do have the best interests of our profession and the
public in mind.
I think it's just more hoops to jump through to maintain certification and makes it more costly to
maintain without benefit.
I actually think that CME alone should be sufficient alone for active licensing and PA should not
be held to a different standard than all other medical providers
I have only taken the recertification exam once (3 days ago) and I work in an Urgent
Care/Primary Care setting. The results of my first PANRE may more strongly influence my
responses to these questions. I think the more seasoned PAs who have seen the evolution of the
recertification process or a PA in a specialty practice might have stronger opinions and I hope
their responses would be more weighted than mine
They should let the changes made4 years ago complete at least once cycle before making more.
Being in specialty practice, I see nothing wrong with the current recertification process. I like the
fact that I need to review topics that I don't have clinical practice in, in order to stay up to date.
as stated above. not sure what the answer is. the beauty of a PA is the generalist knowledge and
ability to change pathways along a career. however, there should be more focus on testing the
knowledge of the actual practice vs generalist to maintain a certification.
I may be a minority with the severity of my test anxiety but taking a test does not reflect my
knowledge base or how I treat and care for my patients. I understand the necessity of being tested
but I preferred the take home which allowed more time for test taking. I believe a combination as
suggested may be a solution worth exploring.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 71 of 148
I understand the reasoning for open book testing due to the apparent number of specialty PAs not
passing the PANRE, and I see both the positive and negatives. On one end if just continues to
improve our knowledge base as a midlevel practitioner. But as hectic as our daily lives are now I
can barely add in any extra on top of what I already do! I am a mother of 3 young children, a full-
time PA, homemaker, and wife. Outside of the regular CME, journals, and PA students that I
precept I have increased concerns of adding on more that has already been added to the new 10
year cycle....and tests to beat the band just to defend my competency. If anything, with the 10
year cycle, having completed the SI portion this year already, I was already impressed. The
PANRE I feel needs to have changes. The questions are outdated and not practical for the most
part to the practicing PA.
I will recert on my last 6 yr cycle at 60. I am extremely unlikely to recert again past then, so it
doesn't much matter to me.
Protecting the ability to change specialties in important.
I feel that we do more than other medical health professionals and do not need to add more work
to the process.
I am strongly opposed to a take home test- how would this measure anything? This is ridiculous-
we don't have the time outside of work to look up hard to find details about things that may or
may not apply to our specific positions.
There are still many providers who haven't even entered the "new" 10 year cycle with new CME
requirements and now they are wanting to make changes again. I have not personally entered into
the new cycle but colleagues that have are very unhappy with new requirements. With the
proposed new structure for testing I have many concerns. The open book structure was removed
years ago for not being effective and now it is being brought back, this in itself does not make
sense to me. Also, having more tests throughout the year puts more of a time burden and
constraint on practicing providers. Employers are putting more and more restrictions on
compensation in regards to money and time off to complete CME requirements and from what I
can tell these requirements will increase need for more of each or put more pressure on PAs to
pay out of pocket for these requirements.
As a PA in orthopaedics for 37 years it seems unreasonable for me to take the same exam as PAs
in general medicine. Albeit there are potential musculoskeletal manifestations with many or most
system ailments I do not believe I should be required to compete with other clinical based PAs.
There is little in this test that confirms my competence in orthopaedics and my daily practice. I
am retiring early partially due to this flawed system that I am very tired of. I addressed this
flawed process with the NCCPA and other colleagues 30 years ago and with little response and
progress. I have maintained my certification throughout my 37 years however.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 72 of 148
I have begrudgingly participated because I have to. I have waited to begin making the changes to
my own recert process because I knew there would be many hurdles and changes, and I have been
correct. Still waiting for the process to become more user friendly.
I don't understand the SA/PI requirements and I'm not excited about starting them. I like the CME
I and CME II breakdown. Most of my CME was CME I anyway and I think it would be really
hard to do a SA/PI in my specialty.
I am very upset that the NCCPA seems to be ramming this change down our throats. Their
response to many PA's pushback is to say that they know best, and it sounds like they've made up
their minds anyway. The system we are supposed to be evaluating is very poorly defined. The
scope of the take home exam is extremely vague,and could represent a huge undertaking. No one
liked take home exams in college because you could end up doing much more work than a
traditional test. There is no mention of what CME would be required, except for remediation for
not doing well on a specialty exam (and that is not defined either). So no more CME
requirement? Same as now? If there is no CME requirement, then the SA and PI new
requirements must not be worth much. I don't know what initiated such a drastic proposal. Are
patients being harmed at an increasing rate? Perhaps it's the fail rate. Many have complained
about the questions being esoteric or overly specialized (it's supposed to be a generalist test). Has
anyone thought about writing a better test? Some PAs would like to have independent practice,
but the reality is that we practice medicine with the supervision of physicians. They are the ones
to monitor our skill level with patients, not an exam. And if the concern is for patient safety, that
is the reason the NCMB exists. To me, certification means that I satisfied all the requirements to
become a PA. I'm not sure why we need a recert process. When I switched specialties I worked
closely with my supervising doc (14 hours a day for months) until my knowledge and skills were
up to par. That's why we can switch specialties, not because we take a test every 10 years. Thank
you for listening.
I feel that it is getting harder and harder to be in a specialty. Since I only see research patients,
there are very limited options even to attain the new CME requirements as none are relevant to
my practice. I don't think the proposed exam changes will be any different, which still leaves us
with the problem of a recertifying process that isn't relevant.
I certainly think there are benefits to the proposed changes. However, I do not know all the
specifics. I'm comfortable with the current testing, but it does test me on a number of things that I
never see in my day to day practice.
As long as it keeps the PA-C as a general practitioner who is able to function with specialists of
all stripes, I'll be happy
It seems to be adding more time and money we need to spend on tests and CME- and I don't think
testing really proves anyone's competence
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 73 of 148
As a PA who has passed PANCE and PANRE several times, changed specialties without
problems and seen this process evolve, I find the new proposed changes disparaging. This
proposed model will only take time from patient care as we will spend more time making sure we
are on track with certification, testing. It will make us LESS desirable to employers who already
find NPs easier to hire and maintain their credentials. It will reduce retention of PAs - those close
to retirement will opt not to recertify due to the lengthy process. That will have repercussions on
PA education (lack of good seasoned PA preceptors and mentors). LASTLY, it will divert
students away from being PAs and towards NP because the process is so much simpler. I do
think it will completely undermine our profession. I do not think the current model is perfect.
However, making it more complicated is NOT the solution.
I feel that CME is more expensive now and more time consuming. Some of us have full schedules
and a family at home and now we will be required to spend more and take more time working on
"busy projects". I feel that it was easier to read journals on our own time and attend conferences.
NCCPA seems to be trying echo the program that the physicians are following and this is creating
havoc, legal action, petitions, boycotts. Why are we adding more to what is working well?
The SA/PI requirements seem to mirror physician requirements in both reception and
implementation. Most of the physicians I know feel that these requirements are merely a means of
generating revenue to sustain certification bodies. A10-year, 6-year or 5-year recertification cycle
is irrelevant when what you accomplish in the end is spending enough money to infuse your short
term memory long enough to sit for an exam evaluating you on something you don't do every
day. We are all interested in being respected professionals in our field and should strive to be
lifelong learners. That being said, I do not mind reading well written informative journal articles
daily and answering questions on topics at I don't see in practice to make me a more well rounded
provider. I do not mind being reviewed by my peers and supervising physician to check the
quality of my work and identify areas of improvement or excellence. The hard truth remains that
in a busy practice there is very little of this actually being done and most of the evaluation is
merely a rubber stamp to fulfill the requirement. Clinical experience hours, supervising physician
evaluations and continuing education should be more than enough to demonstrate competency.
Our profession was instituted on the basis of the relationship between the PA and the Physician
and scope of practice was determined through mutual agreement and demonstrated competency.
I believe that the timed exam as well as the non-timed exam should be open book. We utilize
resources including colleagues and research materials throughout the day so this best reflects our
practice. I do believe the timed exam should be general with an option to specialize for an
additional certification.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 74 of 148
HATE the PI portion of the current recert in particular. BUSY WORK which can be hard to put
together. And expensive. Not wild about SA either. Why institute all of these 2 year
requirements AND then ADD on more testing???
I do not believe an open test exam should be any more frequent than every 10 years. Most of the
cme we do annually is technically an open book exam. I do not want the focus on specialty
certification to keep me from changing fields. That is why I chose this field to start with.
More frequent testing is just a way to increase revenues.
I'd be all for the change to open book tests more frequently in place of a large 10 year test but as
it stands, all of my CME time would be used to take these tests every 2 years which doesn't leave
me time to get my CME requirements
My personal opinion is that NCCPA screwed up the process with the recent changes and they are
trying to "fix" it by adding more confusing and stupid requirements. We should make real
changes and drop the PANRE all together and maintain CME requirements. NPs take initial
exam and require 30 CME every 2 years and I do not hear any public outcry about them retesting!
Physicians do not retake USMLE ever after medical school.
Given the high percentages of PA's practicing in non primary care fields I believe the proposed
re-certification changes are important. My understanding is that the other physician extenders-
NPs do not have to re-certify, but do have to earn x amount of CEU's or CME's every so often
and was wondering why we have to re-certify?
Recertification if vital. It should be done as relevant to clinical practice as possible. The open
book method is aligned.
Keep the current model. Continue to advance the CAQ program to other specialties. No reason
for further changes being proposed. The generalist model works best as we can change specialties
without having employers worry about what we are currently certified in. The CAQ model was
brought in to address the concerns of people wanting to show their competence in a certain area
of study. Why change yet again and so quickly after it was started?
The cost is going to be an issue. It is very expensive to pay for the SA/PI requirements.
I don't think SI/PI will do much to further my continued medical learning.
The proposed testing requirement involve too much work to prepare for several tests within a 10-
year recertification period, in addition to SA/PI CME (which itself is a waste of time). Honestly,
if the NCCPA proposed changes are implemented, I will either retire or find another profession
before I have to recertify again. I am afraid the changes will push more people to become NPs vs
PAs, which will hurt our profession.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 75 of 148
The current regimen is very stressful, time consuming, expensive. I would prefer more frequent,
small doses with less stressful environment than a test center.
In a world of having technology at your fingertips - Pathway II open book formats make the most
sense for those working in subspecialties. If I can prove I know WHERE to get the answer and
HOW to get the answer, then I have proven my ability to practice evidence based medicine with
an acceptable level of competence. Being required to memorize diabetes management algorithms
for a PANRE format, only to never use it in a 10-yr cycle makes little sense in comparison.
I thought the pathway II exam was great.... Would like to see it come back. Don't think a
specialty exam is a great idea..... Who are we proving our competency to? My physician doesn't
care, other than me taking time away from work to study, go to conferences, etc.
I, like a majority of my PA colleagues, are tired of the constantly changing requirements and ever
increasing costs of maintaining certification.
It's a money making game in the name of better practice. Bullshit.
I could not answer #11 and #12 because I just entered this new 10 yr cycle and have not had the
time or energy being a full time working mother to figure it out yet. After just taking my
recertification exam for the 5th time since 1990 I feel like I should be exempt from having to
take it anymore and just keep up with my 100 CME hours/ 2 year cycle.
I have recently met many PAs who are now having problems passing the PANRE. Some of them
state it is because they are in a specialty however I am finding that it is more likely the test. As a
primary care PA with over 20 years experience in many different settings I found the test this
time not pertinent to what I do either. Many ER cases. Honestly in the Primary setting we
stabilize and transport. You have to have special training to do ER work. We have to know how
to analyze information after looking it up if need be. We also have to be aware of best practices.
We do need to know when to send for testing and what test. But the exam does not take into
effect what insurance will pay for--CT vs MRI. The test is not based in reality. Memorizing data
does not make for a good clinician. How the information is used even when we have to look it up
is more important. That being said one minute per question is too short. Some questions are
straightforward but others have subtle information that we need to have the time to analyze and
take into account. I read quickly but had difficult time finishing. My first exam back when it
was for two days was easier and more appropriate.
I do not like the SA/PI requirements. That is difficult if you are not a TREATMENT provider.
CME should be enough on a regular basis, even if this had to be changed to yearly.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 76 of 148
We are PA's. We are not doctors and I'm not at all interested in ( and I think it's straight up stupid)
to move towards a doctorate degree. Don't really care about certification, it's crap. I've seen
straight A stupid PA's in practice that smoked the boards. It's a process that makes someone feel
important and competent and I understand that's important for bureaucrats and liberals. I'm more
about competency and for that, I'm about testing your knowledge on things you will see and do
and not on a standardized test that is full of questions designed to meet the curve. Sorry, I've been
around a long time and most of this is pure bullshit. I practice and have been for almost 30 years,
I'm good at what I do and my MD peers will vouche for me. Some stupid test or a doctorate
degree won't change a damn thing. How's that for my honest opinion? Perhaps we should test
competency instead? Just a thought.
I applaud the efforts to for improving the process and obviously the NCCPA recognizes they have
a flawed system, otherwise this would not be an issue. Subjecting individuals to the possibility of
losing their jobs for not passing a recertification exam frankly angers me. Although I have never
failed the pathway I exam, the anxiety it produces does nothing to make me a better PA. Many of
our physician counterparts are required to recertify, but they do not lose their license to practice
medicine if they do not pass the exam. Nurse Practitioners are not subject to the same scrutiny as
PA's. What has our profession become? I am a believer is lifelong learning but not to the
detriment of the profession. As I am nearing the end of my career, it's sad that I gauge the
number of years left that I want to practice to the 10th year of my certification cycle so I avoid
having to take that brutal exam yet again.
A good step forward
I think the whole SA/PI is a money making deal and not helpful to our profession. I think there
should be an endpoint for testing. I think the new stuff is too confusing and not helpful for those
of us who want to move between specialties, esp at the ends of our careers
Develop pathway 2 focused exams
I would suggest that the timed PANRE be discontinued in favor of open book and required CME.
If a PA changes speciality a compentency exam in that specialty could be given.
I would like something that is simple and straightforward and covers the basic things. I'm not
interested in specialty areas.
The recertification process helps to validate our expertise and clinical acumen. General medicine
testing helps in career mobility and protects the patient as the provider in a specialty must be
cognizant of the whole medical picture of a patient thus being more than a quick fix technician.
I always preferred the CME meetings that were most specific to my type of practice. Saw no
value in the self assessment course I just took.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 77 of 148
We have not tested the change to a ten year cycle with SA/PI CME, why add changes now?
There is no evidence CME protects the public. It seems unwise to forge ahead with more costly
changes without scientific data to support it.
generalized testing with specialty testing included
I am a certificate only PA-C having worked for 42 years and i plan to retire within 2 to 3 years. I
used to believe national certification protected the public, but I find the new requirements baffling
and intimidating. I do not see the utility of same.
There is little to no evidence that the changes proposed will have a beneficial impact on patient
outcome
#10: none of the above. 11: none of the above. I am considering NOT recertifying for the last
time because of these. 14: Masters is coming if not yet here. 15: I would appreciate an
affordable, online doctorate option similar to NPs. 18. possibly..
I would rather take the recert every 6 years than add more CME
It is illogical to make major changes to a process when half of the PAs have yet to even enter into
the 10-year cycle. And no one is more than 2 years into the 10 year cycle---making changes
when all of us have essentially no experience in the "old" (but quite new, actually) process is
somewhat illogical.
I do not really know what the proposed changes are in a simple format so I can't really the
questions.
Unnecessary. Costly. It stimulates experienced PA-C to retire sooner. No other Health Sciences
associate degrees have to be tested to the MAX as PA's.
Taking exams more frequently? Working full-time, raising kids................very hard to study.
You did not give the choice on questions 10 and 11 to say that I don't think any of the proposal
from NCCPA is beneficial for me which is my opinion.
The current process tests basic primary care knowledge and insures that PAs meet basic
knowledge standards. The proposed changes are more time consuming and add little to improving
a clinical PA's skill sets.
this will be my last recert cycle as I am almost at retirement age
being designed by individuals that are not actively practcing in the real world.
10 year cycle is great, but the SA/PI portion seems daunting.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 78 of 148
all personal growth is driven by the person themselves and not by any forced cramming for
an exam or doing anything other than going and hearing people more current in their fields
than we are . All other testing is to document as a profession we police ourselves,
probably needed I suppose.
Why must we recertify at all when MD's, NP's do not have to take any type of testing? Is not our
education, clinical experience, CME criteria, and supervision enough? Why are we held to a
different standard? The public has no idea that we take a test or that an MD or NP do not have to.
for me the changes would cost me more money. since i am one of the first PA's in the 10 year
cycle the self assessment and the pi is costing me more money. there are no self assessments or
pi's in my field of medicine. so i have to take specialize programs that have nothing to do with my
specialty. also these self assessments cost more money and one has to spend extra time trying to
pass these since they are not in your field of medicine.
I believe we should all be certified in General Practice, because of our mobility.
There should be a time limit whereby a PA does not have to recertify. In my opinion, the test
serves no purpose except to line the pockets of the NCCPA. In the early days of the PA concept,
perhaps it had some relevance. I graduated from PA program in 1977. Then the PA idea was a
new one and the certification exam probably helped patients feel better about being seen by a PA.
That is no longer the case. I think that for new graduates, it is reasonable for them to take the test
a couple of times in their first 8-10 years of practice but after that, it should not be necessary.
After that, it just becomes another hoop PAs have to jump through for no good reason. A PA
does not prove his/her competence in patient care by taking a test every 6-10 years. Competence
is proven in the marketplace for PAs the same as MDs. If you keep yourself sharp and take good
care of your patients that is all that matters. If you need a test every 6 years in order to do that,
then you probably don't need to be a PA at all.
It will be a relief to take an open book test. I will still learn through the process, but it takes the
pressure off of relearning other specialties.
Recertification is a money making process for NCCPA: all it does is shows if you test well. It has
no correlation to how well one preforms as a PA
I think that you should be given an option, to continue current recertification process or follow
the specialty recertification track.
Leave it alone....the 6 year cycle with the 100 hours every 2 years is fine. This is a money thing
only, and if you read the PA Huddle, that seems to be a consensus. Also, the requirements can
seen as a hardship to many. I think the NCCPA has a large disconnect. My next time to recertify
is when I turn 70, and I SERIOUSLY doubt I will put myself through the grind.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 79 of 148
Questions 11 & 12 do not provide a "none of the above" option. There is no credible data in the
literature supporting examinations/recertification as establishing provider competence or
protection of the public. Maintenance of Certification (MOC) has become a money-making
business as the ABIM and Pediatricians have discovered. Documentation of ongoing and regular
CME should be sufficient.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 80 of 148
What barriers to a name change might prevent you from voting to accept a
name change?
I do not think there would be any barriers. It’s an outdated and inaccurate title based on the
position and job PAs carry out and perform.
None. I honestly believe that changing the name from assistant to associate would greatly help the
movement forward of a PA. It would bring a more solidified appearance of the PA to a patient. I
think it more accurately describes our role in relation to our supervising physicians.
Confusion of the public on current physician assistant role
Being hyper focused on keeping the PA abbreviation. Associate Physician would be more
appropriate given how academia uses associate professor to denote a more limited education/role
professor
None. I also think getting a doctorate is degree-bloat. I did not become a PA to do research. I
did not become a PA to stay in school for as long as an MD. Just because the NPs went to
doctorate doesn't mean their curriculum is commensurate with any additional education that
justifies that designation.
A little more complicated to have to explain to patients and supervising MD why we are changing
it, however for future purposes I believe APP or physician associate/extender are more
appropriate terms.
I think we should use the medex term (ex. Medex Smith)
In general, there needs to be more promotion of the role PAs play and some patients are not even
aware of what "PA" even stands for.
I would accept it but i don't think its necessary and will just further confuse the public and
healthcare field.
Honestly, I think we should be re-branding the profession as just "PA." If we introduce ourselves
as "PA (insert last name)", I think it would carry more weight than changing "assistant" to
"associate." It makes it easier for the patient and similar to the way physicians introduce
themselves. I would not necessarily vote against the name change, but I am unsure of the actual
benefit it will give to the profession.
public confusion
Current widespread use of "physician assistant" by the public may make name change confusing
to general population.
One of the biggest concerns that I have about a name change is the confusion that accompanies
any name change.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 81 of 148
Pattends being confused of why there was a name change
Regardless of if the name changes or not, more public outreach should be done to educate the
general public about what PA are and what we do.
It's not going to change the way we practice or the perspective of patients and doctors, so why go
through the trouble of changing it?
I don't see any big problem to the name 'physician's assistant' or any reason to make the change-
along with re-education of physicians and patients that would come with the change.
None, I welcome the name change from Assistant to Associate.
The long and illustrious history of the name. We are what we are. If it isn't broke, don't fix it!
especially just for pride.
As much as I do not like the title "Physician Assistant" I also do not like "Physician Associate".
Why do we have to have the word "physician" in our title at all? I wish there was a novel word
just for our profession. If I had to pick between these two options, I would pick Physician
Associate - but if the profession moves towards a doctorate degree I would want to avoid having
the doctorate title be "Doctorate of Physician ___ Studies" and instead relate to Medical Science.
The recent proposition from the AAPA to just use "PA" seems ridiculous to me. It has to stand
for something and we've worked hard to get the recognition of PA so we shouldnt change it
completely. That is why I think physician associate is more in line with what we do
professionally and shows a little bit more respect. Our programs should award doctorates because
NPs going to doctoral programs basically force us to do so. Otherwise it sounds like their training
is superior and above ours despite it being far from the truth.
We have fought to make people aware of what a Physician Assistant is. We have name
recognition and I think the window of opportunity for name change has passed.
I would be in full support of the name change
People are finally beginning to accept and understand what a physician assistant is. Be patient,
the time will come when a physician assistant is as distinguished a a 'doctor'. Do you get the
point? We have more important issues to solve.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 82 of 148
None really. AAPA has committed to rebranding the profession as "PA" versus "physician
assistant" and this is the term that I utilize when I introduce myself to patients, or even when
discussing my profession with someone that I meet in passing. When asked to clarify what a
"PA" is and does, I give a brief description of my day-to-day job responsibilities and duties, as
well as my education. I also will typically highlight the difference between myself and a MD.
Changing the profession name to "physician associate" will not change the way that I do this.
My primary concern with the name change would be from a legislative angle. What would this
mean for the laws that currently state "physician assistant" as a qualifying provider that
can/cannot perform certain acts or see certain types of patients, etc. . Similarly, for insurance
companies, how would this change reimbursement, if at all?
Many of my patients don't use the correct term when they address me currently and I think
changing the name may cause more confusion than benefit. I like the term associate over
assistant, I just feel that it will not be result accepted by others
new title, new education towards public
Time it takes for the public to be knowledgeable on the career itself, there are still patients out
there that do not know what a physician assistant is
The fact that all the legislation regarding PA practice from the last 50 years would have to be
rewritten to reflect the name change. I recommend working to integrate the physician associate
nomenclature into new and existing legislation and then change the name. I don't want to see our
profession set back due to semantics.
Physician associate is not much better than physician assistant and it's possible that it would only
cause more confusion about the role of a PA. Physician associate almost sounds like an
administrative or legal role.
Old school physicians and NP'
The confusion for patients will prevent me from voting for this change. I also do not feel the
name change will have a positive impact on compensation for PAs.
Current degree is Master's of Physician Assistant Practice so Associate may cause confusion
when posting degree in office for some.
The general public is already confused about our role in the health care system. This may just be
another confusing point for them
Anything that is demeaning.
After change there is always a long time until new changes are accepted widely
cost (very expensive to get the laws changed) and unnecessary
there is always the debate if the practice laws in every state would have to be re-opened to allow
the name change or not - that is the main point of contention that i've heard in the past
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 83 of 148
If it will alienate our physician collaborators or if it will cost too much, I would be hesitant to
accept.
None, I think the name needs to change. I often feel uncomfortable saying Physician Assistant
around patients because they lump us in the "medical assistant" category and not the provider-
patient category!
its all semantics. just give us tools to be the best we can be.
state-level legislature: might require edits to multiple laws regulating PA's
I do not see a need for name change
There would have to be a lot of public education. Patients are already confused about
terminology: PA, NP, midlevel provider,...
Only something better than "physician associate". physician assistant is terrible. Needs to be
changed. Question is: is physician associate the right choice (it's ok, not great) I get the PA thing
If the name is no better at describing our profession. It's unfortunate we're so tied to "PA" because
we would be better served being called Medical Practitioner instead, but at least Physician
Associate is better than anything with the title "assistant" in it.
There's already confusion for patients and some physicians on what a PA is and capable of doing.
Im not sure that a name change would fix that issue, but I wish something could be done
I do not see a need to change the name of our profession. It does not change anything about our
clinical practice and would, I think, cause confusion for patients and colleagues. I feel that the
NCAPA has "bigger fish to fry" at this point in time (i.e. the recertification process)
Cost
If opening that part of the bill up for change also opens other parts (prescribing rights etc) that
might end up being voted on by higher powers and restrict us in the end. If it opens that can of
worms then I am fine being called "assistant" even if it's a misnomer
I have a comment to make on the questions about a doctoral degree. It seems absolutely
ridiculous to me that people are even considering a doctoral degree for the profession. There is no
benefit. Why after two and a half years of getting our Masters would we want to go back and
pursue another degree? We did not go to medical school for a reason and I think having a
doctorate, for any reason other than you want to teach, is ludicrous. It isn't like we could use it to
credential ourselves we would still be PA Jones, etc.
Is it worth the name change. Many times people do not know what PA stands for so will the
change make a big enough difference to be worth the work to have the name changed?
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 84 of 148
I think that the term "associate" has a less professional connotation than "assistant."
While I have mixed feelings about transitioning to a doctorate program, I fully heartedly embrace
the transition to the tittle Physician Associate.
I just think there would be too much confusion with the change.
I think it might bring confusion initially from all medical professions and the patients as well.
However, the current name, Physician Assistant, already creates confusion for those not as
familiar with the profession. Most of my patients (and even nurses and ancillary positions)
assume that I'm just an assistant to a Physician (like an MA or even a secretary) and do not have
significant medical training.
Patients are used to "Physician Assistant" and may be confused by a new title. Also, I feel that
there are more important issues on which to expend our energy that the name change.
Whether the hassle is worth the effort. My understanding is that if we "open the books"
regarding legalities of the profession (ie, changing the name), then that open period could also
leave other aspects of PA practice-law open for change/alteration, and without really specific
oversight and management, that could be catastrophic. It could also be really amazing and
beneficial for the profession. I think we need an aggressive board -- I feel like the national
nursing board has a reputation for being more aggressive than the PA governing board is. Why is
that? How can we change? If the title Physician Associate would take one step in the direction of
being more competitive in the profession, then let's do it. I think the name is less important than
our presence, the quality of our care, and education the public and other health care providers
about our invaluable role.
I don't have enough outside clinical experience to inform my choices on a name change.
None at this time. I believe this proposed amendment is overdue and would be highly beneficial
to the institution of the PA practice and patient care in NC.
I do not think there would be a problem with the change however I believe medical practitioner
would give much more of a positive light on the PA profession and accurately describe our
medical role.
Creates even more confusion with the general public. All of us old PAs have built this profession
into an accepted profession and we got into it knowing we would be called assistants. If you want
to be a doctor,go to medical school. There are tons of openings because we PAs have done a great
job.
A name change is meaningless.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 85 of 148
None the name has been out dated for a long time . We need to have a higher level of degree to
keep pace with the NP program or our profession will die. NPs are becoming more independent
where's has we are dependant on physicians and the Medical Core does not advocate for us or
NPs to be independent for fear of losing jobs. But in today's cost effective market with NPs
becoming independent of physicians they will be more marketable than us. Why hire a PA who
needs a Physician to cosign there charts when you can hire a NP. Just my 1 cents.
Simple; I vote no, as I have for years. Leave it alone . I am proud to be a Physician ASSISTANT!
Seriously, with all the issues that surround health care, we are going to worry about a name?
How about getting the laws changed so that PAs have the same authority as a NP? How about
PAs being able to sign for things like home health care and such? I hardly think a name change
should be debated and we sure do not need to spend the money on these things. If a PA needs a
name change to feel accepted, then there are deeper issues.
None. I would vote in support of the name change.
I agree with the change
there are already to many ways of labeling us as it is, advanced practitioners, mid-level providers,
physician assistants, this would just add to the number and confusion surrounding what we do, in
my opinion. I would be interested to know if it is "newer" graduates of PA programs that are
wanting these changes, or those of us that have been doing this in the trenches for many years.
Bigger legislative and reimbursement issues
I can not think of any barriers in particular.
I can't think of any barriers
I don't think there would be any barriers
We are what we are... We are Physician Assistants! We assist the Physician(s). Why are we
making it so complicated??? If you want to be a Physician, go to medical school!
We already have to explain ourselves so why add any further confusion.
Would wonder if there would be legal or payment issues with a name change.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 86 of 148
While I believe my physician partners and patients would accept a name change, I don't believe it
would actually clarify my role in health care or offer any practical benefit. I believe it has been a
very long patient educational process to learn what a Physician Assistant is, and I think it may be
equally lengthy process to adapt to Physician Associate. Also, I do worry with the political
atmosphere and competing interests that opening up legislation would also open up the door to
negative setbacks for the profession. That said, perhaps those risks are worthy if in fact a title
change is felt to broaden the way towards remaining competitive in this healthcare market. I
would support a doctorate degree mainly to remain competitive in the healthcare market and I
feel not having it could be negative for the PA profession because most health care industries are
nurse-driven/nurse administratively run.
I won't support a name change; we have too many other priorities to get derailed on unimportant
detours like this
It should have been this from the start.
I think it could have potential legislative implications regarding scope of practice for PA in
states/at the federal level.
we have bigger and more important battles to fight
I don't see any benefit. There are associates in several retail stores. State legislatures could have
problems and affect current privileges.
financial obligations
I like the name because it is what we (myself, patient's, docs) are used to saying but I do believe,
as a PA who runs a clinic and is the only provider in the clinic, that it is a misnomer
Financial cost. Opportunity cost. Confuse patients. Confuse insurers. Who ties their value and self
worth into a name? PA is a internationally know term, lets stick with that.
I like to stick with the historical name. As a Physician Assistant, I am highly aware of my
training and skill and I am responsible for educating patients and supervising physicians on my
training and skill too. Being an "assistant" is not derogatory to me.
don't know that assistant or associate make much of a difference. i know i provide high level care
for my patients and that is good enough for me
The profession is 50 years old there may be a general resistance to change.
difficulty with acceptance of physician's and re-educating the public
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 87 of 148
I think initially it would be difficult for people to process, but hey... They are also asking us to
consider testing every other year too. I would be concerned about the process of changing the
certifications, some physician approval along with other PA approval. But did we not have
Physician Associate title in the past for a short time?
The opportunity cost of changing the name may prevent other important advances such as
improving reimbursement and expanding scopes of practice.
Anything that would negatively reflect on the profession or require a great expense
Patients have become familiar with Physician Assistant and changing the name might be
confusing to them.
We have been working hard to explain our role as a Physician Assistant and educating providers
and patients for years and are finally making some head way. We would be reinventing the wheel
and starting from square one on all the work we have done to change to another name that still
doesn't better describe our role.
I don't think a name change would matter to anybody but PA's
I think that a more appropriate term would be "adjunct" rather than "associate." Like "assistant,"
"associate" can be linked to a menial level job, such as "sales associate."
If there was evidence (as opposed to fear) that doing so would create legislative problems for
PAs.
Too much change. We have always been called physician assistant and patient's would just be
more confused.
This argument has been circulating longer than I've been practicing and I've been doing this for
22 years. If we were going to have any true or lasting affect on how we're viewed because of our
name, it should have been done a very long time ago. It seems more like an exercise in futility at
this point.
Only logistics. If those in leadership think they can do it, it's fine with me.
PA's have worked hard to establish their position in healthcare. I think a title change would
confuse the public and cause many to wonder where the physician assistant went.
Legislative and policy logistics - not a good use of our time and energy.
There are no barriers. This change is long overdue.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 88 of 148
It's been 40 years. With the growth of the profession, patients are just starting to understand PA-
Cs and what they do. Why confuse it now? Why are we trying to alienate the physicians (like
the APNs are doing)? Let's not move backward and shoot ourselves in the foot by biting the hand
that feeds us.
It's not a huge deal but i feel it would largely confuse the population. Id like to hear why folks
think its a good idea
Poor roll out/implementation and perceived missteps would cause me to vote against.
costs for chapters, practices. State statues must change. Public relations programs must increase
(which isn't a back thing) and could be an opportunity.
I think there are many other issues to worry about now rather than this.
Money-- this is a huge undertaking and is confusing to patients and other providers
The problem is not really with the name so much as the practice laws in some states and the way
we are required to practice. Does the name prevent some of the practice laws from moving
forward? Possibly. The other issue is name recognition keep switching and will have to reeducate
patients and staff about who/what we are and what we do. I would support name change if that is
what profession desires.
I don't think it's necessary, as it doesn't change the way we function, our colleagues won't care
and patient's won't know the difference.
If there were mechanisms in place to nationalize the changes, it would not matter to me. I don't
want to have to go back to square one and apply all over again.
The public and other professions might view a name change as a step towards seeking
independent practice, which we DO NOT want as a profession. Also, a name change of the
profession will be time consuming and cause little actual change in terms of patient care. It is a
lot of work for very little benefit.
bigger issues to address within organized medicine that are more urgent for policy and
reimbursement
None. Yale, where I attended PA school already uses Physician Associate - much more
appropriate.
It needs to carry an implication of GROWTH - not just a "name change."
Confusion among patients, colleagues, legislators, and payors.
None, it's been a long time practical and realistic truth.
Patients have finally accepted the PA concept and changing may confuse them
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 89 of 148
It may reinforce in patient's mind that you are a 'doctor" if you say you are "Dr. Brown's
Associate"
The fact that I think it's stupid might be a barrier. I think we should spen more time on working
with promoting what we do and getting reimbursement for it than trying to look important with
another title or name. We got to this place in time by working hard and proving ourselves. It's
time to demand better pay. No further name change or degree is needed. I know a lot of really
stupid MD's and PH.D's. The title doesn't impress me, competency is where the money is at!
No barriers. This should have been done many years ago. The PA program at Emory University
actually had the name "Associate" dating back to the early 1980's. The term "assistant" has
plagued our profession for many years and a name change long overdue.
Disruption in the MD-PA partnership model due to push back from medical groups.
resources: financial, time, people and the risk of opening the medical practice act in all 50 states
People are now comfortable with the old name-- it took a long time to get here. associate sounds
like a term the foreign med grads would use-- NOT A FAN
None, my concern would be, what would it matter to the patient?
Monetary
None in my view. The medical establishment may give some push back.
Alienation of our physician partners, the fact that the change opens up every rule in every state
and could cause more restrictive practices or other unintended rule changes. Let's think about the
potential risk, which to me, far outweighs any gain or stroke of ego the title change might bring.
I do not feel this is an important issue.
Cost to everyone to make the change, including the cost of dedicating the public.
Misunderstanding a Physician Associate for a physician colleague of those with whom they
practice
I don't care...my work currently speaks for my role as a PA-c. The NCCPA is not my friend, yet I
must pay to play, sounds like a RICO violation to me. I'm too old for this kind of nonsense that
interferes with so many levels of "professional " life. I think the schema has been promulgated by
educational institutions and professional societies that all assume that advanced degrees make
better practitioners...not true in my humble opinion.
state legislation/authority
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 90 of 148
the expense and vast amount of time and other resources to change the name in laws and
regulations. Opening up practice laws in some states may be quite dangerous for PA scope of
practice in places that are not as PA-friendly. Depending on the outcome of the national and state
elections, there could be some limitations on practice--so let's not open up laws for a title change
that has absolutely nothing to do with the clinical care we provide. Better to spend our time and
effort improving access to care and continuing high quality care.
not needed. There is a program out there that is medical associate, means Tech, Vital sign/ clean
the exam room job. Not what we are. Just means more confusion and possible legal issues as
laws at present say Physician Assistant to change laws opens up all that we worked for to have to
be reexamined/ limited by nursing.
No difference. I am more concern about the changes for recertification. Thank God I am closer to
retirement.
My patient's know my name and know what I do for them. They do not care if I'm assistant or
associate; they care if I'm there to care for them and they know what I'll do and how I'll do it. My
title/label makes no difference. In fact most call me "Doc" and I have to correct them. It's easier
to ask them to address me by my name.
Effort and money diverted from more important issues facing the PA profession. Risk of
unintended consequences from opening the medical practice act.
The multiple legal and administrative changes which would be involved.
when I trained there were some programs graduating "associates". I've heard the arguments pro
and con. what really matters is that patients understand our role in the healthcare team.
why? this has been an issue for years.
Tremendous risk of opening medical practice laws to "unintended" modifications and the
enormous cost associated with the transition.
Educating others on why it was done. Spending g time and energy when it might not even make a
difference. Might be better to just educate the public A LOT on what a PA is rather than changing
the name.
not sure it is needed .
Because it will take another 40 years to explain what a physician associate does or is.
I have been a PA for 25 years and am perfectly fine leaving it as Physician Assistant. That is
what I went to school to be and I am proud of it.
Sounds like working at WALMART: absolutely disagree with "Associate"
Can't say at this point. Would have to see how things work out.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 91 of 148
Not sure that it is necessary. There is a lot of history and experience tied to the current title.
Does it open a bag of worms in the state's regulatory laws that impact PAs?
It took 50 years to get the acceptance of Physician Assistant, changing now would not help any.
Makes no difference
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 92 of 148
Speaking on Behalf of NCAPA
From current NCAPA Policies and Procedures:
2000 Official Position Statements
2000.1 The NCAPA prohibits any person holding him/herself out as speaking for the Academy without
sanction of the Board of Directors or its agents. This applies to verbal, written and electronic
communications. Guidance: If approached to offer a statement or opinion, within the context of your role with NCAPA,
(applies to BOD, chairs, committee members, etc.) you must forward the request to the Executive
Director for vetting and approval. He/she will consult with the Executive Committee and provide
guidance. This applies to media requests, student interviews or other external requests. In the event that
you choose to share your personal viewpoint, you must include the following disclaimer: “The views I am
expressing are mine and do not reflect the viewpoints of NCAPA and should not be considered the
position of the NCAPA”.
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 93 of 148
DRAFT MINUTES
NCAPA Board of Directors Meeting
Saturday, January 23, 2016 10:00 am – 11:15 am
Video Conference Call
Mission Statement:
NCAPA provides innovative solutions to empower our members to enhance their careers
and advocate for optimal health care.
Vision Statement: North Carolina PAs transforming health through equitable delivery
of patient-centered, team-based care.
ATTENDANCE
Board Members Present:
Wanda Hancock, President
Truett Smith, President-Elect
Marc Katz, Immediate Past President
Samantha Rogers, Vice President
Paul Hendrix, Treasurer
Linda Sekhon, Secretary
April Stouder, Director-At-Large
Chris Barry, Director-At-Large
Rick Ulstad, Director-At-Large
Ashlyn Bruning, Director-At-Large
Eric Langhans, Student Director-At-Large
Will Ashby, Student Director-At-Large
Board Members Absent:
Frank Caruso, Director-At-Large
Student Representatives Present:
Ryland Bradley, ECU
Autumn Eliason, Wake Forest
Jessica Jansson, Wingate
Julie McCracken, Duke
Scottie Springer, Elon
Committee Chairs and Liaisons Present:
Alisha DeTroye, Regional Chapters Committee & IAC Task Force
Paul Hendrix, Continuing Education Committee
Marc Katz, Government Affairs, NCMB Review Panel, & Governance TF
Sandy Pierce, Membership Committee
Molly Calabria, Student Affairs Committee
Ryan Vann, Finance Committee & Nominating Committee
Bowie Tran, Communications and Marketing Committee
Daniel Mattingly, NCPHP Liaison
Rob Bednar, OEMS Liaison
Robert Wooten, Endowment
Rick Edwards, Nominating Committee
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 94 of 148
Regional Chapter Presidents Present:
Roger Austin, Unifour PA/APRN
Ashlyn Bruning, PAPA
Guests:
Tom Peluso, Government Affairs Committee member
Elmira Powell, Government Affairs & Health Committee member
Staff Members Present:
Cathie Feild, Executive Director
Kat Nicholas, Director of Membership & Marketing
Carin Head, Director of Conferences & CME
Sally Paillé, Business Manager
CALL TO ORDER
WELCOME AND ROLL CALL
CONSENT AGENDA: The following report was removed from the Consent Agenda:
Endowment
Action: A motion was made to approve the remaining Consent Agenda. Seconded. Approved
unanimously by a voice vote. (See list of reports contained in the Consent Agenda at the end of the
Minutes.)
AGENDA: The two student presentations were moved to the April meeting and the Endowment report
was moved to “For Discussion”. The Search Task Force report was moved from “For Discussion” to
Action Item Reports.
Action: A motion was made to approve the Agenda, as amended. Seconded. Approved unanimously
by a voice vote.
ACTION ITEM REPORTS
Governance Task Force
The revised bylaws were approved by the Board at the November meeting. After a review of NCAPA’s
policies and procedures, it was determined that only one vote was needed by the Board before the bylaws
are sent to members for a vote. Since the November meeting, the Governance TF realized that another
small change was needed to correct Article IX, Section 1. Proposed edit shown below in red:
Section 1. Number and Election. The Academy will have delegates to the AAPA House of Delegates. The
number of delegates who may vote will be determined by the AAPA. The total number of delegates to be
elected will be determined by the Academy’s Board of Directors in a manner specified in policy.
Delegates will be elected by plurality vote by Fellow Members of the Academy, in accordance with the
provisions of Article X.
Motion: Adopt changes to Article IX “Delegates to AAPA House of Delegates”, Section 1 “Number and
Election” as specified in the Governance Task Force Report.
Motion: Seconded
Discussion: None
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Follow-up Action: The revised bylaws will be sent to the membership for a vote. If approved, they will be
effective on June 1, 2016. The Task Force will now start reviewing and revising the NCAPA’s Policies
and Procedures.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 95 of 148
Regional Chapters Committee The Chair reported that there were a few updates since the Committee’s report was submitted. Outer
Banks Physician Extenders and Fayetteville Area Physician Assistants have stated they will not have
representatives on the Regional Chapters Committee. Metrolina and Cape Fear Regional Chapters have
not confirmed if they will have a representative on the Committee.
Motion: Approve the re-chartering applications for Cape Fear, FWNCPEA, Outer Banks, TAPA,
Fayetteville and Unifour, as they have fulfilled all requirements.
Motion: Seconded
Discussion: The Chair clarified that the regional chapters are not required to have representatives on the
Regional Chapters Committee. It is optional.
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Motion: Approve the re-chartering applications for Metrolina and PAPA with the condition that all of
their officer memberships are current by April 1st (to allow for employers who pay on the member’s
behalf).
Amendment: Wording change requested: “Conditionally” approve the re-chartering applications for
Metrolina and PAPA. . .
Amendment: Seconded
Discussion on Amendment: None
Vote on Amendment: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Motion: To approve the motion as amended.
Motion: Seconded
Discussion: None
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Treasurer
Motion: Contract with Stancil & Company to perform a formal review of the NCAPA’s 2015 finances
with the final report scheduled for presentation at the April BOD meeting.
Motion: Seconded
Discussion: None
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Communications & Marketing Committee
Motion: Adopt the NCAPA Guidelines for Web, Blog and Social Media Postings as outlined in the
Committee’s report.
Motion: Seconded.
Discussion: The Committee was commended for its excellent work on developing the much needed
guidelines.
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Executive Director
The Executive Director explained that the quoted cost of the audio visual equipment upgrade in the ECC
conference room was expected to be $11,000 rather than $6,108.35 as stated in her report. The increase
was due to three items: 1) an improved 20x zoom camera, 2) the purchase of wireless microphones, and
3) modifications necessary to make all of the components HDMI compatible.
Motion: Approve an expenditure of approximately $11,000 from the Special Projects Fund to upgrade the
audio visual equipment in the ECC conference room to allow video conferencing.
Motion: Seconded.
Discussion: It was pointed out that someone would be needed to run the equipment during video
conferencing. The proposed camera will be controlled with a remote control. A picture of the wireless
table top and hand-held microphones was shared.
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 96 of 148
Government Affairs
Co-Chair of the Committee explained that the committee had not made a recommendation earlier on the
need for a lobbyist and government affairs consultant in 2016 because it wanted to see if the new
Executive Director was qualified to assume more of the duties and responsibilities. Now that the new
Executive Director has been selected, the Committee recommends maintaining the current arrangement
with John bode and McGuire Woods Consulting for 2016.
Motion: Retain John Bode and McGuire Woods contracts for 2016.
Motion: Seconded.
Discussion: None
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Internal Audit Committee Task Force
The President questioned if the Task Force’s recommendations needed to come forward as a motion. The
Executive Director pointed out that the recommendations are counter to current policy and, as a result,
require a Board vote to supersede existing policy.
The Chair of the Task Force reported that the past Chair of the Internal Audit Committee did not
participate in the Task Force’s conference call. She was also given an opportunity to respond to the
recommendations before they were presented to the Board, but she did not provide input.
The Task Force recommends the following:
1. For 2016, revise the composition of the IAC so that it is comprised of the following three people:
The President will appoint one NCAPA officer to serve on the IAC; the Finance Committee Chair
will serve on the IAC, and one member of the Academy who is not on the Board will also serve
on the IAC. NCAPA’s Business Manager will serve as the staff liaison to the committee.
2. The IAC will be charged to examine its role and purpose over the course of 2016 and make a
recommendation about whether NCAPA needs to continue to have an IAC beyond 2016 or
whether the functions of the IAC are, or could be, assigned to another committee. If the IAC is to
continue after 2016, the committee should make a recommendation to the Board about what the
duties are of the IAC and what the composition of the committee should be.
Motion: Adopt the two recommendations as set-forth in the Task Force’s report
Motion: Seconded.
Discussion: It was asked when the new committee would make their recommendations to the Board
about how to proceed in 2017. The Chair of the Task Force stated that the committee could make a
decision by August on the need for the continuation of an Internal Audit Committee and, if it does
continue, what its duties and composition should be going forward.
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
Follow-Up Action: The President will appoint, by early February, one NCAPA officer and one non-Board
member to serve on the Internal Audit Committee, along with the Chair of the Finance Committee.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 97 of 148
Search Task Force
The Chair of the Search Task Force expressed appreciation for the work of the Task Force. The Task
Force has been working since November 2015 and reviewed a total of 53 resumes for the Executive
Director position. The Task Force interviewed three final candidates at the Stead Center on January 9th,
and staff members also participated in this process. The Search Task Force made an offer to Emily Adams
and she accepted. A brief bio and a photo of Emily were shared with the Board. Emily’s start date is
March 21, but she will attend the upcoming Networking Social on Feb. 19, and Saturday and Sunday of
the Winter Conference.
Motion: Approve the hiring of Emily Adams as the new Executive Director.
Motion: Seconded.
Discussion: none
Vote: Voice vote; passed unanimously.
REPORTS FOR DISCUSSION
Endowment
The NCAPA Endowment President, Robert Wooten, reported that a meeting was held on January 19 of an
Endowment Task Force appointed to work on revising the Endowment’s bylaws. Those on the Task
Force are: Robert Wooten, Sue Reich, Jim Hill, and Marc Katz. Wooten also reviewed the Endowment’s
financial position at the end of 2015. The Golf Tournament’s financial viability is being re-evaluated. The
Board was encouraged to help publicize the availability of grants for PA students. The NCAPA Pulse is
running a series featuring previous grant winners. The Endowment provided grants to five students to
attend the AAPA Leadership & Advocacy Summit next month using monies from the Lanny Parker
Fund. The NCAPA Board members were asked to make contributions to the Endowment and to donate
their time and ideas for fundraising. Wanda Hancock reported that she had reappointed Marc Katz as the
NCAPA representative to the Endowment Board.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
AAPA Leadership & Advocacy Summit, Feb. 4-6, Arlington VA. NCAPA is funding Detra
Chambers and Tom Peluso to attend. The Summit will focus on the NCCPA proposed
certification changes.
Executive Director Cathie Feild’s last day is Feb. 12, 2016. The Board thanked the Executive
Director for putting the Academy on solid footing. The Executive Director thanked the Board
and said it was a privilege to work for them.
Networking Social at the Stead Center on Feb. 19, 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Everyone is invited to attend.
RSVP with the Director of Membership and Marketing.
SA CME Workshop with John Bielinski scheduled for March 12 in Charlotte.
The Executive Committee will meet on March 9 using Zoom video conferencing.
PA History Society Veteran’s Memorial Garden Project. The NCAPA’s representative on the
committee, Paul Hendrix, stated that the work is proceeding.
The next meeting with be on April 23 at the Stead Center. The President asked the Board to give
consideration, before the meeting, to three items that will be addressed at the AAPA House of
Delegates: 1) name change of the profession, 2) NCCPA proposed certification changes, and 3)
education degree advancement.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 98 of 148
REPORTS APPROVED BY CONSENT AGENDA:
Minutes from November 2015 BOD Meeting
Officers’ Reports:
President
Secretary
President-Elect
Vice President
Immediate Past President
Standing Committee Reports:
Continuing Education
Executive
Finance
Health
Membership
Nominating
Student Affairs
Liaison Reports:
NCMB Review Panel
NCPHP
OEMS
Student Board Representative Reports:
Campbell
Duke
East Carolina
Wake Forest
Wingate
PA Program Director Reports:
Campbell
Duke
Regional Chapter Reports
PAPA
ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully Submitted By,
Cathie Feild, Executive Director
On behalf of Linda Sekhon, Secretary
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 99 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Executive Director Report April 23, 2016
Executive Director Introduction and Orientation Activities
Prior to official start date of 3/21
- Attended the Winter Conference Social Reception on Friday, 2/19
- Attended a portion of the Winter Re-certification Conference on Saturday, 2/20; met with Wanda
Hancock and introduced to attendees.
- Participated in Executive Committee Call on 3/9 and drafted minutes
Official start date 3/21
Introduction emails to key stakeholders including: Board, Committee Chairs, PA Program
Directors, Regional Chapter Chairs and key vendors
Finance:
o Met with Paul Hendrix and Paragon Banking Representative and David Dew for financial
operations overview
o Met with Dawn Dees from Stancil regarding audit review and Form 990 preparation
o Call with Ryan Vann re: Finance Committee
Government Affairs: o Met with Sarah Wolfe from MWC for update on work and brainstorm around 50
th
anniversary opportunities with regards to GA.
o Met with John Bode to get historical context of NCAPA lobbying work and discuss
upcoming legislation.
Executive Committee: o Met with Wanda to discuss AAPA Conference, Endowment, NCCPA, and Health
Committee concerns
o Met with Wanda, Marc, Sam and Paul
o Scheduled meeting with Truett on 4/23
Health Committee: o Rescheduled Peer Mentor Task Force meeting
o Conducted review of peer mentor program and general health committee activity
Nominating Committee: o Call with Ryan Vann re: current status of nominating committee
o Reviewed Elections Online system for use with 2016 election
Central Office Operations
o Payroll processes
o Invoice coding and check approvals/signing
o Opening/Closing procedures
o CVENT use for look up
AAPA o Met with AAPA staff Penny Galliard and Stephanie Radix
o Working with AAPA to finalize logistics for AAPA awards.
o Registered for conference and made travel arrangements
Staff Meetings
Met with individual staff members about current work and historical information on programs
and projects
Held staff meeting on 3/23 and established bi-weekly staff meeting schedule
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 100 of 148
ECC Use
3/22-3/23- BCBS Foundation held two-day training
4/1 - Lenoir-Rhyne students visited Stead Center for tour PA History talk from Reginald Carter and Ken
Harbert – ED sat in on portions of the talk for educational purposes.
Internet and Phones
New teleconferencing equipment installed 4/4 for use at 4/23 board meeting
April Board Meeting
RSVP email sent out 4/1
Board Reports due 4/11
Board Book posted 4/15
Committee Meeting Participation
Board Governance Task Force – 3/30
Scheduling Nominating, Health and Peer Mentor Taskforce and will participate in meetings
Equipment Purchase
Given the age and performance of the three NCAPA laptops and the demands at both winter and summer
conference, I am purchasing three new laptops for NCAPA staff, board and committee use. Currently,
staff report chronic issues with functionality and reliability of two of the laptops, and therefore, the only
computer that is used is the former Executive Director’s laptop computer
The laptops are most used during conference to support the business office and for some conference
sessions. They are also used for meetings and for remote work.
50th
Anniversary Brainstorming
During 2017, to raise awareness of the 50th anniversary of the profession and the promote PAs in NC,
NCAPA would host tours and meetings with local legislators at each of the 11 PA programs in NC. This
proposal would involve many NCAPA stakeholders: the PA programs, Regional Chapters, local NCAPA
members and students. NCAPA will provide food and planning support. This would allow legislators to
meet with PAs in their districts and gain firsthand experience about what PAs do and how they are
trained.
Respectfully Submitted,
Emily Adams, NCAPA Executive Director
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 101 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Governance Task Force Report April 23, 2016
Members: Marc Katz, Chair, Jeff Katz, Detra Chambers, Samantha Rogers, Wanda Hancock, Kondie
Lykins, MJ Leonardi, Emily Adams, Staff Liaison
The Task Force continues to meet and is currently reviewing NCAPA policy and procedures. A detailed
report will be given to the Board after all of these have been reviewed.
Respectfully Submitted
Marc Katz, PA-C
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 102 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
President Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Wanda Hancock, President
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
Finalized the contract and transition of the new Executive Director.
Appointed Internal Audit Committee as directed by the board of directors.
Attended the Winter Conference on February 19 – 21, 2016.
Developed a pilot survey of conference attendees concerning NCCAPA proposed changes which
was used as a foundation for the development of another survey developed by the Executive
Committee for our membership.
AAPA Roundtable conference call January 11, 2016 and STAR conference call March 17, 2016.
NCAPA Endowment for 2016.
o Appointed Marc Katz to serve as representative for 2016
o Ongoing discussions about fundraising activities during the Summer Conference and
NCAPA support of those activities.
Government Affairs Task Force – Began review and revision of the Policy and Procedure
manual. Meeting via video conference Feb 16, 2016
Executive Committee conference calls (report submitted).
o February 17, 2016
o March 9, 2016
o Planned April 13, 2016
Met with Executive Director weekly by telephone, daily by email.
Attended Urological Association of PA conference in Orlando, FL March 31 – April 3, 2016,
board of directors and conference attendee.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
Finalize a letter to the NCCAPA concerning the NCAPA position on the current proposed
changes for recertification.
Develop a summary of HOD resolutions for the NCAPA membership for review and comment.
Review of strategic plan with Executive Committee in May
Continue monthly Executive Committee zoom meetings.
Continue work on GA Task Force for review and revision of the Policy and Procedure Manual
Attend AAPA House of Delegates as Chief Delegate and AAPA Conference as Constituent
Organization President
Begin development of 50th Anniversary plans with Executive Director and President Elect.
ACTION ITEM(s): None
Respectfully submitted,
Wanda C. Hancock, MHSA, PA-C
NCAPA President, 2016
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 103 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 104 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 105 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 106 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 107 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 108 of 148
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 109 of 148
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 110 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Secretary Report April 23, 2016
Activities Since Last Board Meeting: The following motions were approved by a unanimous vote of
the Board via email:
Motions:
1. HOD Resolution - Dr. Reamer Bushardt and Suzanne Reich drafted a resolution entitled "PA
Self-Governance and Accountability to the Public". The Executive Committee presented the
resolution electronically for a unanimous vote by the board of directors. Ms. Hancock signed the
resolution and submitted it. Each of the NCAPA House of Delegates were contacted for review
and endorsement.
Approved: 3/3/2016; Motion carries.
2. The EC Endorsement of Gail Curtis for President of AAPA - NCAPA Executive Committee
unanimously approved to send to the board for an electronic vote the endorsement of Gail Curtis
for President of AAPA.
Approved: 3/14/2016; Motion carries.
3. AIC Composition: President Hancock recommends the following individuals be appointed to the
Internal Audit Committee:
Chair-Alisha DeTroye, (appointed member-at-large)
Ryan Vann (Chair of the Finance Committee)
Linda Sekhon (NCAPA officer)
Approved: 3/2/2016; Motion carries.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals: N/A
ACTION ITEM(s): None
Respectfully submitted,
Linda Sekhon, PA-C, Secretary
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 111 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
President-Elect Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Truett Smith, MPAS, PA-C
President-Elect
Committees- Executive, Finance, Continuing Education, Marketing and Communications
Activities Since Last Board Meeting: Participated in NCAPA Strategic Planning at January Board
meeting. Participated in the NCAPA Welcome Reception at the Winter Conference. Participated in
monthly Executive Committee meetings and email correspondence. Participated in email correspondence
with Finance Committee. Participated at the NCAPA Winter Conference as a Continuing Education
member. Participated in email correspondence with Continuing Education Committee. Participated in
email correspondence with Marketing and Communications Committee.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals: Continued involvement in Committees and Roles, as above.
Represent NCAPA as a Delegate to the AAPA HOD in San Antonio. Increased involvement in the
planning of the 50th Anniversary of the PA profession in conjunction the Duke University PA Program.
ACTION ITEM(s): None
Respectfully submitted,
Truett Smith, MPAS, PA-C
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 112 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Vice President Report April 23, 2016
Activities since Last Board Meeting:
Executive Committee
Participated in monthly conference calls. We have discussed many issues and brought them to the Board
for voting when needed. Also completed search for new Executive Director.
Governance Task Force
Revision of the Policies and Procedures Manual has begun. Meetings are via Zoom and are
approximately twice a month.
Student Affairs
Committee member- participated in Conference Call on January 26th.
Respectfully submitted,
Samantha D. Rogers, PA-C
Vice President
NCAPA
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 113 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Immediate Past President Report April 23, 2016
Summary of my activities since last Board Meeting:
Conference Management Panel
I was an active volunteer throughout the Winter Conference including desk assignment,
moderating and assisting with other activities as directed by our Conference Director. I was also in
attendance at the networking social the evening prior to the meeting.
PDRP
Participated in the PowerPoint presentation reviews before the Winter Conference. Participated in
video conference call that established schedule for the summer conference.
Government Affairs
See separate report. I also participated in the Physician Assistant Advisory Council meeting on
March 16. Summary of this meeting is in the GA report.
Governance Task Force
See separate report.
Finance
Continue to review and monitor Academy finances as directed by out Finance Chair. Participated
in the Feb 10 conference call.
Endowment
Attended Endowment meeting on March 16. The Endowment Trustees have not yet approved the
proposed revised Endowment bylaws.
Nominating Committee
As Immediate Past president I am a member of this committee. I have contacted potential leaders
to determine their interest of serving on the NCAPA Board.
Executive Committee
I remain an active participant in our monthly meetings.
Respectfully Submitted,
Marc S. Katz PA-C
Immediate Past President NCAPA
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 114 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Continuing Education Committee Report April 23, 2016
CONFERENCE MANAGEMENT PANEL
The Conference Management Panel makes decisions regarding changes and improvements to NCAPA’s
two existing annual conferences. Members volunteer at conference, run beach events at summer
conference onsite, and work registration desk.
Conference Management Panel Members: Paul Hendrix (Chair), Ray Brown, Roger Page, Bill Vaassen,
Josh Smith, Laura Geraghty, Marc Katz, Staff Liaison: Carin Head
The CMP had a meeting on Sunday, February 21 at the February Recertification conference. On
the agenda were beach tournament captains, Endowment Golf Tournament, and plans to celebrate
the 40th Anniversary of the conference with a special item given to all conference attendees.
Giveaway items are currently being researched and a final decision will be made by the
committee when pricing is available.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PANEL
The Professional Development Review Panel (PDRP) recommends, reviews, & selects speakers for
NCAPA’s two existing annual conferences. They also review lecture content to ensure high quality
educational standards.
PDRP Members: Josh Smith (Chair), Gail Curtis, Laura Geraghty, Marc Katz, Angela Meredith, Don
Metzger, Linda Sekhon, Staff Liaison: Carin Head
The PDRP had a conference call on Wednesday, March 23 to select speakers for the 2016
Summer Conference. Speakers are currently being scheduled and the online agenda will be
updated as speakers have been confirmed. The PDRP would like to have all speakers confirmed
by May 1, 2016.
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PANEL
The Educational Development Panel ensures that NCAPA offers the most current CME-such as online
CME & research, and recommends new types of CME including new NCCPA certification standards (SA
and PI CME). Recommends speakers and approves learning objectives and presentation content for all
CME or other educational workshops offered outside of NCAPA’s two annual conferences.
Educational Development Panel Members: April Stouder (Chair), Alisha DeTroye, Charlene Morris,
Samantha Rogers, Joel Stoia, Staff Liason: Carin Head
The EDP has been communicating via emails to schedule the remaining regional CME events
throughout NC. A Joint Injection Workshop is being planned for June 25, 2016 in the Piedmont
area, and an exact location is currently being worked on. We plan to hold another Self-
Assessment workshop at the Stead Center on September 17, 2016. Finally there will be a Joint
Injection workshop scheduled in October 2016 in the Eastern Part of the state.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 115 of 148
WINTER RECERTIFICATION CONFERENCE
The annual Winter Conference and Recertification Exam Review was held at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel
in Research Triangle Park, NC, Feb 20-23, 2016. A total of 378 PAs and NPs participated. The
conference, now in its 30th year, draws PAs and NPs from all over the country; this year,22 states were
represented. The format was switched to have part of the conference over the weekend this year, and
attendance was up 20% over last year. Conference evaluations are detailed below and the preliminary
Winter Conference P & L is attached.
W16 OVERALL EVALUATIONS
Excellent Good Fair Poor
Conference Registration 75.8% 24.2% 0% 0
Educational Content 79.0% 19.4% 1.6% 0
Conference Facilities 62.9% 30.6% 6.5% 0
Audio Visuals 64.5% 33.9% 1.6% 0
Overall Conference Evaluation 71.0% 26.2% 3.3% 0
Likely to Recommend Conference 79.0% 19.4% 1.6% 0
W16 P & L
Revenue $196,660.00 Registration Fees
8,500.00 Exhibitor Fees
Grants
$202,510.00 Total Revenue
Expenses $136,695.41
Net Revenue $ 65,814.59
SELF-ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP
An Acute Care Medicine Self-Assessment workshop was held in Concord, NC on Saturday, March 12,
2016. 67 practitioners were in attendance including 58 PAs and 9 NPs. The workshop was approved for
20 Category 1 Self-Assessment credits by the AAPA. This workshop will also be offered at the Summer
Conference and on September 17, 2016 at the Stead Center.
Revenue $11,725.00
Expenses 5,749.49
Net Revenue $ 5,975.51
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 116 of 148
2016 SUMMER CONFERENCE
Our 40th Annual Summer Conference is scheduled for August 21-26, 2016. The conference takes place at
The Kingston Plantation, a Hilton and Embassy Suites Resort, in Myrtle Beach, SC. Conference
registration is now open.
The Conference Program, featuring 29 + Hours of Category I CME, will conclude in the early afternoon
each day to allow you and your family plenty of time to enjoy Myrtle Beach. Conference highlights will
include a 5K Fun Run on the beach, a Sand Sculpturing Contest, and Pier Fishing, Horseshoe, Volleyball,
& Cornhole tournaments.
In addition to the 29 Category 1 CME hours offered in the general sessions we plan to offer 31 hours of
Category 1 CME for the following workshops BLS, ACLS, Dermatology, Joint Injections, Orthopaedic
Exam, and Suturing. We will also offer Self-Assessment CME (20 hours of credit) and a PI CME project.
The hotel room block is open and you can reserve your room via the link on the Summer Conference
webpage. Please make your reservations early, accommodations WILL sell out. Room rates start at $97
for a one-bedroom lake view lodge and go up to a two-bedroom oceanfront condo for $287.
For more details about accommodations or to make your reservations, call 1-800-876-0010 with group
code AOP or visit:
http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/M/MYRBHHH-AOP-
20160817/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG
.Please visit our web site www.ncapa.org for additional information. If you have
questions, please contact NCAPA at 1-800-352-2271 or conference@ncapa.org.
See you at the Beach!!!
Paul C. Hendrix, MHS, PA-C
Conference Chairman
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 117 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Finance Committee Report April 23, 2016
Committee Members:
Ryan Vann, Chair
Wanda Hancock
Paul Hendrix
Marc Katz
Emily Adams, NCAPA Staff Contact
Sally Paillé, NCAPA Staff Contact
1. Review of 2015 End-Of-Year Financial Statement: On February 10, 2016, the committee met by
videoconference to review the FY2015 end-of-year financial statement. Overall, the Academy is in a
healthy financial position at this time. Due to variety of factors – including higher than expected
Summer Conference attendance and lower than expected overall expenditures – the NCAPA ended
2015 with $160,064.36 in revenue over expenses. In recognition of this significant excess, the
committee decided to move $100,000 into a 26 week CD. In addition to allowing a small amount of
interest to accumulate, this action also provides an easy way for the NCAPA to move the Paragon
checking account balance closer to the FDIC limit (currently $250,000). In addition, the committee
decided to move $30,000 each to the NCAPA’s newly-created Building Maintenance and Special
Project funds. For a further description of these funds, please see the following excerpt from the
Finance Committee’s January 2016 Board report:
“Building Maintenance and Special Project Funds: In addition to the FY16 budget, the BOD
also approved the creation of separate Building Maintenance and Special Project Funds. The
Maintenance Fund was created with the idea that the Stead Center and the equipment within will,
over time, require the outlay of significant funds for repair, replacement, etc. It is difficult to
predict, however, when we will need to spend this money. For example, if an air handler needs
replacing, we often will not know until equipment breaks, and we will need to have the repair
performed in a timely fashion. It is difficult and impractical to budget for such large “just in case”
expenses. The new Maintenance Fund provides for that. This fund will initially be seeded with
$50,000 (money we already have) and, over time, the Finance Committee will work to increase
the amount within the fund to be sure that we can quickly cover large maintenance and repair
expenses. Expenditures from this fund will be proposed by the Executive Director [and/or
Business Manager – this statement added for the April 2016 report], and the Treasurer and
Finance Committee Chair will provide approval. The BOD will be kept up-to-date whenever this
fund is accessed.
“The Special Projects Fund was created for those instances when committees (or others) have
new or one-time projects for which they want to request funds. Since the budget primarily
provides for monthly and other well-established expenses, the Special Projects Fund provides a
“pot” of money for projects and other expenses that don’t fit those categories. If money is
requested from the Special Projects Fund, an action items will need to be presented to the BOD
for a vote. This fund will initially be seeded with $25,000 (again, money we already have).”
2. Monthly Review of Committee Budgets: Each month, the committee reviews a financial statement
prepared by our accountant. From this statement, our accountant generates pie charts for each
committee that show what portion each committee’s budget has been utilized. We hope that
committees find this information useful as they plan their expenditures throughout the year. If your
committee has suggestions as to how this information could be more useful to you, please do not
hesitate to contact Ryan Vann (Finance Committee Chair) at ryancvann@gmail.com.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 118 of 148
3. Review of Schwab Reserve Accounts: The committee reviews reserve account statements monthly.
It is the NCAPA’s policy that a minimum of $1.15 million is kept in these accounts. As of February
29, 2016, our reserve totaled over $1.19 million. Because we have these funds split into two separate
accounts, the Committee continues to review each of these and regularly evaluates whether changes
should be made in regards to allocation of funds.
4. Quarterly Review of Banking/Checking Accounts: As directed by the BOD in November 2010,
the Treasurer, Chief Executive, and Finance Committee chair review the Academy’s
banking/checking accounts each quarter to ensure that funds in excess of $250,000 are moved into
our CDARS accounts. This helps to ensure that our accounts will be fully FDIC insured in the event
of bank failure/financial catastrophe. Our account balances have not recently required such fund
reallocation. Emily and Sally will continue to monitor our accounts on a regular basis and will let us
know if our balance approaches/exceeds $250,000.
Action Items: None.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ryan Vann, MHS, PA-C
Committee Chair
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 119 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Government Affairs Committee Report April 23, 2016
COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The committee held a conference call on January 25 and discussed the following topics:
Responsibilities of a GAC member
Possibility of a “PA Day” at the legislature in 2016 and/or 2017
Opioid Treatment Program Issue (see “Additional Activities”)
AAPA’s model legislation
The political landscape in 2016
NORTH CAROLINA LEGISLATURE
“PA DAY” AT THE LEGISLATURE SCHEDULED
The GAC secured the proper permits to hold a “PA Day” at the North Carolina General Assembly on
Wednesday, June 15. All interested NCAPA members are invited to come to Raleigh on June 15 to
promote the PA profession by meeting with their local legislators and volunteering at an informational
booth in the legislative building.
JOINT LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES
(HHS Oversight)
Throughout the interim, the HHS Oversight committee discussed the possibility of changing the law to
allow for advance practice registered nurses to have independent practice. The Medical Society is
opposed to this potential change. NCAPA has not taken an official stand on this issue, but has been
watching it very closely.
JOINT LEGISLATIVE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE ON MEDICAID & NC HEALTH CHOICE
(Medicaid Oversight)
The Medicaid Oversight committee met several times to receive updates from the Department of Health
& Human Services on progress of Medicaid reform. NCAPA has continued to monitor the Medicaid
reform process in order to ensure that PAs can continue to work at the top of their licenses and are fairly
reimbursed.
NORTH CAROLINA MEDICAL BOARD MEETINGS
MARCH NCMB MEETING
The Physician Assistant Advisory Committee (PAAC) discussed PA terminology (collaboration vs.
supervision), the record retention rule for PAs, site visits, and the relevancy of QI language. GAC
member Tanya Darrow and Government Affairs Consultant Sarah Wolfe attended the meeting. GAC Co-
Chair Marc Katz participated in the meeting as a member of the PAAC.
The Allied Health Committee heard from a representative of the EMS Disciplinary Committee on a
request to change the statute concerning the membership of the EMS Disciplinary Committee. No other
items were up for discussion. GAC members Tanya Darrow and Christian Schulz and Government
Affairs Consultant Sarah Wolfe attended the meeting.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 120 of 148
The Policy Committee reviewed the following positions: Sexual Exploitation of Patients and Care of the
Patient Undergoing Surgery or Other Invasive Procedure. GAC members Tanya Darrow and Christian
Schulz and Government Affairs Consultant Sarah Wolfe attended the meeting.
The Executive Committee discussed the draft rule for the controlled substances CME requirement.
Government Affairs Consultant Sarah Wolfe attended the meeting.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
DHHS WORKING GROUP ON NPI
GAC Co-Chair Marc Katz and Government Affairs Consultant Sarah Wolfe participated in a conference
call held by the NC Department of Health and Human Services on a discussion about CFR 455.500 –
National Provider Identifier (NPI). The topic of discussion was the requirement that all claims for
payment for items and services that were ordered or referred must contain the NPI of the provider who
ordered or referred such items or services. This group is continuing to meet but its focus is more on
claims.
PROPOSED RULE CHANGE
Last year, the GAC constructed a public comment to the NC Board of Podiatry examiners, requesting
them to consider a modification to 21 NCAC 52 .0208 – Continuing Education. The public comment
requested the rule be amended to include a licensed PA, as it only included a licensed physician.
At the February 18, 2016 meeting of the Rules Review Commission, the modification to 21 NCAC 52
.0208 was unanimously accepted and has been officially codified into the Administrative Code.
OPIOID TREATMENT PROGRAM ASSISTANCE REQUEST
The Government Affairs Committee, in conjunction with the Health Committee, wrote a letter to the U.S.
Center for Substance Abuse Treatment requesting their assistance within North Carolina. The State
Opioid Treatment Authority took the position that Opioid Treatment Program patient admissions may
only be performed by physicians, not PAs or nurse practitioners.
Federal Treat Act (S1455)
Members of the Executive Committee and the GA chairs were contacted by AAPA staff to elicit our
support in contacting Senator Richard Burr (Chair Senate HELP Committee). The Senate HELP
Committee is considering legislation that will permit PAs and NPs to prescribe buprenorphine for the
treatment of opioid addiction. The amended TREAT Act (S. 1455) does not include a demonstration
program. It amends federal law to affirmatively authorize PAs to prescribe buprenorphine, treating PAs,
NPs, and physicians in the same manner, while deferring to State law. Before receiving a waiver to
prescribe buprenorphine for the treatment of opioid addiction, all qualified providers (PAs, NPs, and
physicians) must complete 24 hours of training in the treatment and management of opiate-dependent
patients. AAPA is listed as one of the organizations who can provide the training.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 121 of 148
Additionally, the Senate HELP Committee will consider Mental Health Reform legislation, which
recognizes the interface between primary care and behavioral healthcare, as well as the critical role of
PAs in behavioral healthcare through the following provisions:
• Includes PAs in the mental health career development strategic plan
• Acknowledges PAs among the healthcare providers who may serve on mental health/substance abuse
advisory councils established through the legislation
• Identifies PAs with experience treating serious mental illness as potential members of a new Inter-
Departmental Serious Mental Illness Coordinating Committee
• Adds PAs in the development of model programs and materials for training healthcare providers on
appropriate disclosures to family, friends, or other caregivers of individuals suffering from mental
illness or substance abuse disorders.
We will keep the Board posted about this important piece of legislation.
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 122 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Health Committee Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Health Committee; Sandra Alexander -chair
Members: Sandra Alexander (Chair), Daniel Mattingly (PHP Liaison), Jane Girskis, Elmira Powell,
Roger Austin, Robert Paul, Charles Kober, Gail Curtis, William Cabaniss, Katherine Dancel.
Andrea Dubocq Bernstein (student)
Tayla Howard (student)
Oswald Ganley, Member Emeritus
Corey Richardson, Volunteer Consultant
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
1. NC PHP/ Health Committee joint meeting February 22nd
, 1230-230pm at Stead Center
2. Health Committee Mentor Program Task Force conference call (Corey, Daniel, Gail, Bob, Ossie)
to develop goals and procedures for NCAPA mentor program. Scheduled for Tuesday, April 12 8
pm- 9 pm.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
1. Quarterly HC Peer Review Meeting May 5th 8pm via Zoom
2. 12-step meetings Summer Conference
3. HC/PHP booth at Summer Conference
NCAPA strategic plan coordination with committee goals:
OBJECTIVE 1C: Promote healthy behaviors among Physician Assistants for their own well-being and
the health and safety of the public.
Strategy 1C-1: Collaborate with the NC Physician’s Health Program on issues pertaining to impaired
Physician Assistants.
Strategy 1C-2: Make 12-step meetings available for attendees at NCAPA conferences.
Strategy 1C-3: Promote wellness activities through NCAPA’s communication mechanisms.
1. Quarterly Peer review in coordination with PHP for PAs on contract (1C-1)
2. Coordinate PA list/availability for PHP assessments (1C-1)
3. Continue to revise PA mentor program to roll out for 2016 in coordination with PHP (1C-1)
4. 12-step meeting Summer/Winter Conference (1C-2)
5. Continue to educate HC members on materials to lead 12 step meetings to increase access for
trained volunteers for future meetings (1C-2)
6. Continue mission as PArtners in Health, Wellness and Recovery support for NC PAs and
possibly expand wellness arm of Health committee as membership and time allows. (1C-3)
GOAL 5: PROVIDE MEMBER VALUE
7. HC display at regional and Winter/Summer conferences to be manned when possible (5A-1)
8. HC brochures of mission and services offered to NC PAs (5A-1)
9. HC visits to PA schools as prevention and education measure (5A-3)
HC Goal(s) miscellaneous:
10. Improve process for donation funds to Kober grant
11. Addiction speaker proposal for future NCAPA conferences (ongoing)
ACTION ITEM(s): NONE
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra Alexander, PA-C (chair)
Attachment
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 123 of 148
Draft Minutes
NCAPA Health Committee Meeting
February 22, 2016 1:00 pm - 3:10 pm Committee
3:20 pm - 4:00 pm Peer Review
In attendance:
Sandra Alexander (Chair)
Corey Richardson (Consultant)
Daniel Mattingly (PHP Liaison)
Gail Curtis via Zoom
Oswald Ganley
Tayla Howard
Andrea Bernstein
Warren Pendergast (NCPHP)
Joe Jordan (NCPHP)
Sally Paillé (Staff liaison)
I. Introductions
Sandra welcomed everyone to the meeting and made introductions.
II. NCPHP Update
Warren Pendergast
Warren announced that he is stepping-down in June as CEO of NCPHP. He has been with the
organization for seventeen years.
Joe Jordan, Executive Director, Report
Pharmacy Provider Program. NCPHP has a new contract with the NC Board of Pharmacy and
the organization already has three referrals. A compliance committee has been formed for the
pharmacy program. The NCPHP by-laws are being revised to include pharmacy members on
the NCPHP Board of Directors.
Website. NCPHP’s website is being completely revamped. A communications firm was hired
to examine the organization’s messaging and design a new logo. The new website will
include a speakers’ bureau. NCPHP would like to include one or two PAs in the speakers’
bureau. The revamped website will also include a link to the NCAPA website the NCAPA
Health Committee blog. The website is expected to be finished in June or July.
Outcomes for PAs in Treatment. There are currently 28 PAs in the NCPHP program. Daniel
and Sandra are paid consultants for PAs. Everyone concurred that having a PA present when
PAs are met is important. There is a need to provide more names of PAs willing to support
the NCPHP mission. Sandra asked the committee to think about who would be a good mentor
to someone going under contract. The NCPHP is very happy with its clinical staff. Identified
areas for improvement are turn-around times and messaging.
NCAPA Peer Mentor Program
Corey Richardson shared a PowerPoint on the proposed Health Committee Peer Mentor Program.
The task force of Health Committee members, working on the development of goals and procedures
for this program, has met once. Corey emphasized that even though the mentors are not therapists
or sponsors, their role is more developed than that of a monitor. A discussion followed on several
issues that need to be addressed:
The need for a training program.
How experienced mentors would need to be in substance abuse.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 124 of 148
The need to define roles and what is hoped to be accomplished: mentor should be sought out
and not assigned, the mentor is not a field case worker, will the mentors be reporters or
entirely informal, the need to be careful about information given to mentors in reports, don’t
want the PA under contract to receive too many messages from too many people giving them
the opportunity to “pick and choose”.
A mentor contract will need to be developed and legally reviewed. The contract will provide
specifics on roles, boundaries and reporting requirements. There was agreement that the
reporting needed to be simple – perhaps just a checklist – to avoid the pitfalls of the past.
There was agreement that the mentor program would have great value and development will be a
long process. Even though there is a clear line between the mentor program and NCPHP, the
NCPHP will be kept “in the loop” as the program develops.
Sandra asked if the people on the task force wished to remain (members: Corey Richardson-chair,
Daniel Mattingly, Gail Curtis, Oswald Ganley and Robert Paul). All those present, said they did
(Robert Paul was absent).
Follow-up item: Doodle poll to set-up a meeting for the task force.
Communication with PA Programs
The NCPHP does not include students – it only works with licensed professionals. The Health
Committee would like to talk to schools about available resources. The committee has offered
informal consultations in the past. There are liability issues that will require thought. This is a topic
that will be addressed at the next Health Committee meeting. The NCPHP will be kept informed.
III. Health Committee Meeting
Minutes from the October 21, 2015 meeting were unanimously approved.
New Members/Student Members
Sandra welcomed the two new student members: Andrea and Tayla. There are also five new
members: Katherine Dancel, Elmira Powell, Jane Girskis, Robert Paul and Roger Austin. The
Health Committee now has twelve members and two student members.
Consultant Report
Blog. Corey received an email from Bethany, a PA in recovery, after his article appeared in
JAAPA. It was put on the blog.
Publications. A validated survey tool will be sent to the NCPHP Board of Directors for
approval. The survey will be sent to PAs under contract. There currently is no research on
PAs in recovery. The survey data will be pulled together in June.
Miscellaneous. The Health Committee table was a success at the 2016 Winter Conference.
Twelve-Step Meeting
More details about the twelve-step meetings are needed in the Conference programs and
announcements. At the Winter Conference, there was one person who attended on Saturday, no one
on Sunday and one on Monday. The meeting on Saturday was not what the attendee expected. The
meeting facilitators need to have more training and, at a minimum, have attended a twelve-step
program, if they are not themselves in recovery. A desire was expressed to make sure people not in
recovery are included. Coverage will be needed for the 2016 Summer Conference.
Follow-up item: Doodle poll to determine what the meeting facilitator requirements and training
should be.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 125 of 148
NCMB Proposal on Controlled Substances CME Hours
A law has passed requiring MDs and PAs to have a given amount of CME hours in controlled
substances. Oswald asked if the NCPHP or the NCAPA Health Committee had taken positions,
during the open comment period, on the regulations. It was suggested that the NCPHP be contacted
about their position. Discussion ensued about requesting the NCAPA to provide CME targeting the
new requirement. Gail shared that she is on the Professional Development Review Panel that
recommends, reviews and selects speakers for the two annual conferences. It was agreed that an
action item should be brought to the NCAPA Board of Directors at its April meeting requiring that
a member of the Health Committee be on the Conference Planning Committee. Before the action
item is presented, however, there was consensus that the Health Committee should have a candidate
ready.
Follow-up item: Doodle poll to determine which member of the Health Committee should be put
forth as a member of the Conference Planning Committee.
Kober Treatment Fund
Elmira Powell and Sue Reich (Endowment Treasurer) worked to make sure online donations ear-
marked for the Kober Treatment Fund are received by the fund. The Health Committee
recommended testing it periodically. Daniel contributed $1 to the fund during the meeting, and told
the committee he would let them know if it was properly processed.
Addiction Speaker for the 2016 Summer Conference
The due date for speaker submissions to the Professional Development Review Panel, for the 2016
Summer Conference, is March 4. Corey has someone he would like to speak on addiction at the
Summer Conference. Corey will follow-up with this person. Sandra mentioned that Thomas Colletti
has a moving meditation program. She would like to include an event that focuses health and
wellness. Sandra will contact Thomas to see if he would be willing to do a break-out session.
Rest of the Agenda was tabled due to time
2016 Budget
Future Health Committee meeting dates
Future goals, meeting, conference calls and goals
Meeting adjourned at 3:10 pm.
Alexander moved to go into closed session for Peer Review at 3:20 pm. Everyone left the meeting except
for Sandra, Daniel and Oswald.
Respectfully submitted,
Sally Paillé, Business Manager
On behalf of Sandra Alexander, Chair
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 126 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Membership Committee Report April 23, 2016
2016 Members: Sandy Pierce, Chair
Members: Alisha DeTroye, Sharyn Gates, Jane Girskis, Regina Gurley, Nathalie Ortiz-Pate
Staff: Kat Nicholas
Activities since last Board Meeting:
Membership Renewals and Recruitment:
At the end of February, Kat compiled a list of all Associate and Fellow members who were 2015
members but had not renewed for 2016. There was a total 453 names on the list. These were divided
among committee members who then contacted these lapsed members, either via phone call or email,
encouraging them to renew. As of 4.11.2016, 20 of those individuals have renewed.
First Networking Social of 2016:
NCAPA hosted a networking social on February 19th, the Friday night prior to the Recertification Exam
Review Conference. We had a great turnout! Of those that signed in, 24 were PA students, 39 practicing
PAs, 5 retired or guests, and 4 staff, for a total of 73 attendees. We received great feedback and everyone
seemed to have a good time. The membership committee plans to continue holding socials throughout
the year, and the Friday prior to Recertification will become the “kick-off” social each year. At this time,
there are plans to hold an event in the Asheville area, Winston-Salem, and hopefully the Greenville area
before the end of the year.
Membership Committee:
The committee is working on coming up with questions to be included in the Members Survey to be sent
out by the end of June. The survey will be using a lot of the same questions as last year’s member survey
(so that results can be compared) and will also include questions regarding professional development.
Membership Stats: 2016 membership numbers are comparable to 2015, with the only real increase in the number of students.
That being said, the number of licensed PAs in NC has steadily increased over the years, meaning that the
percentage of those PAs who are members of NCAPA has actually decreased. See stats attached.
Respectfully submitted,
Sandy Pierce, PA-C
2016 Membership Committee Chair
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 127 of 148
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 128 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Nominating Committee Report April 23, 2016
Committee Members:
Ryan Vann, Chair
Chris Barry
Ashlyn Bruning
Rick Edwards
Marc Katz
Emily Adams, NCAPA staff contact
The Nominating Committee has begun its work for 2016. Activities to date have included a video conference
meeting for organizational purposes, and continued efforts to recruit members to run for office for 2017.
Nominations through the Nominating Committee for Board of Directors candidates are due on or before May 15,
2015. Self-nominations are accepted until August 1, 2015. Terms begin on January 1, 2017. The following
offices are available: President-Elect, Vice President, Secretary, Director At Large (2 seats), and Nominating
Committee At Large (1 seat).
If you have questions about any of the available positions, or if you would like to nominate yourself or someone
else for an available position, please feel free to contact us. I may be reached at ryancvann@gmail.com.
Action Items: None
Respectfully Submitted,
Ryan Vann, MHS, PA-C
Nominating Committee Chair
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 129 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Regional Chapters Committee Report April 23, 2016
2016 Members: Alisha DeTroye, Chair
Members: Roger Austin-Unifour, Ashlyn Bruning-PAPA, Jane Girskis-FWNCPEA, Peter Gunn-TAPA, Sandy
Pierce
Staff: Kat Nicholas
Re-chartering for 2016:
All regional chapters are current and up to date with regards to re-chartering for 2016.
Activities since last Board Meeting:
Conference call was held on April 11, 2016. Each of the chapters present reported on their monthly activities.
The majority of chapters are meeting at least monthly for a combination of CME 1 and 2 meetings as well as
social gatherings. Ideas were shared for membership recruitment, officer development, and community service
activities. The committee decided it would be beneficial to consider having a workshop to discuss these ideas in
more depth. Due to many members attending the summer conference, plans for a Regional Chapter meeting the
Sunday of the summer conference will be explored.
Discussion was held about ways to advertise Regional Chapter events on the NCAPA website and Pulse
newsletter. This can serve as a tool for membership recruitment as well as offer networking opportunities for
members in other regions who may be visiting.
Sandy Pierce reported on activity from the Smoky Mountain area and interest to reconvene a group. There is
still a need to identify leaders in the area who may desire to be mentored by the Regional Chapters Committee to
reform a formal chapter of NCAPA.
Far West PEA will host their annual conference on 10/8/16 at the Balsam Mountain Inn and PAPA will host
their annual conference in Winston-Salem 10/15/16. Both of these events offer 6 hours of Category 1 CME for
free.
Information was given to chapter presidents regarding the NCAPA Endowment Regional Chapter grant and
NCAPA Regional Chapter funds available to support Category 1 CME meetings. This will be disseminated to
all chapters.
The committee agreed to meet again by conference call in June to plan for the August in-person meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Alisha DeTroye, MMS, PA-C
2016 Regional Chapters Committee Chair
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 130 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Student Affairs Committee Report April 23, 2016
Members:
Molly Calabria, PA-C, Chair
Laura Gerstner, PA-C
Samantha Rogers, PA-C
Josh Woody, PA-S (Campbell)
Julie McCracken, PA-S (Duke)
Ryland Bradley, PA-S (ECU)
Jessica Clark, PA-S (Elon)
Andrew Rushlow, PA-S (Gardner-Webb)
Christina Saldanha, PA-S (High Point)
Alejandro Rendon, PA-S (Lenoir-Rhyne)
Brian Rose, PA-S (Methodist)
Autumn Eliason, PA-S (Wake Forest)
Jessica Jansson, PA-S (Wingate)
Natalie Ford, PA-S (UNC)
Staff: Kat Nicholas
PA Programs Update:
New PA programs have been visiting the Stead Center. The new class at UNC visited the Stead Center in
January and Lenoir-Rhyne students and staff visited the building on April 1st. Both were presented with
information from Dr. Reginald Carter and Ken Harbert was also onsite for the Lenoir-Rhyne visit.
Kat and Marc Katz plan to visit with Gardner-Webb’s first class of graduating students on Wednesday, April
27th.
Challenge Bowl:
The Annual Medical Challenge Bowl will be held on Saturday, April 16th*. There will be 35 students
participating from various PA programs across the state, our largest group yet.
*By the time of the BOD meeting, the event will have passed; a recap will be included in the August board
report.
Student Leadership Retreat:
An initial planning meeting has been scheduled to discuss the 2016 Student Leadership Retreat. The SAC hopes
to have an agenda planned prior to the August BOD meeting and will provide the information at that time.
Student Grants:
The NCAPA Endowment Student Grant cycle is underway. Kat has sent notices to all students, as well as in The
Pulse, advertising the grants and plans to follow up with each PA program director to encourage students to
apply for the grants. The deadline for grant applications is June 11th.
Action Items: None
Respectfully submitted,
Molly Calabria, PA-C
Student Affairs Committee Chair
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 131 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
NCMB Review Panel Liaison Report April 23, 2016
Members: N. C. Medical Society: Devdutta (“Dev”) G. Sangvai, MD (Review Panel Chair) , Paul R.
Cunningham, MD, Michelle Jones, MD, John Reynolds, MD
Old North State Medical Society: James Smith, MD
N.C. Osteopathic Medical Association: Charlotte Paolini, DO
N.C.A.P.A.: Marc Katz, PA-C (Review Panel Vice Chair)
N.C. Nurses Assoc Council of N.P.s: Dennis A. Taylor, DNP-C, MSN, ACNP-BC
Public Member serving on NCMB: Michael Arnold
The Review Panel met and interviewed interview candidates for the PA and the NP seat on January 30, 2016. 7
PAs and 4 NPs were interviewed.
Candidates sent to Governor McRory for consideration were:
Physician Assistants:
Reamer Bushardt, PA-C
Varnell McDonald-Fletcher, PA-C
Nurse Practitioners:
Helen Meelheim, FNP-BC
Jerri Patterson, NP
The Governor ultimately decided on Mr. Bushardt for the PA seat and Ms. Patterson for the FNP seat.
The representative from the NC Osteopathic Association has changed and will be Charlotte Paolini, DO.
She is Chair of Family Medicine at Campbell.
I was again elected Vice Chair of the Panel.
The Review Panel is soliciting candidates for 2 physician seats. Applications will be open until July 1,
2016 . The next meeting and interviews will be on August 6, 2016.
Respectfully Submitted,
Action Item: None
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 132 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
OEMS Liaison Report April 23, 2016
Activity:
NC EMS Advisory Council Meeting
February 9, 2016
http://www.ncems.org/
http://www2.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/EMS/advcouns.htm
Compliance Report
o Mr. Robert Poe, appointed committee chair
o 296 Applicants reviewed
o 25 Formal Complaints
o East Region-8; Central Region-12; West Region-5
o 19 Cases
8 sent to Disciplinary for review
Unprofessional conduct and performance issues main cases
o 191 Legal Recognitions
o 1474 New credentials
o 1839 Renewed credentials
o EM Today Conference scheduled for 9/30-10/5/2016
o Rules update
o .216d (weapon-safe storage)
o .216e (locked in Safe)
Injury
o Carolinas HealthCare System-Cleveland Renewed Level III Trauma Designation (02/29/2020)
o 1st designated Level III trauma center in 1997
o Cone Health-Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital Renewed Level II Trauma Designation (02/29/2020)
o American College of Surgeons Joint Review
o Verified by ACS as Level II since 1984
o Developing Geriatric Trauma Service
Multidisciplinary team to care for this subset of population.
Hospital Preparedness Report
o FY16-17 $5.9 million
o Improve support ancillary facilities (assisted living/SNF)
o Coordination across DHSR Divisions
o “Pathogens of High Consequences”
o New name for threats such as Ebola
o CDC Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 133 of 148
Agency Report/ OEMS Medical Director
o EMS Course in High Schools
o Emergency Medical Technology I & II
o 270 hour program
o 41 High School Public Safety Academies
(4) EMT
(7) EMS/Fire
o Scope of Practice
o Capnography/ Blind Insertion Airway Devices to be added to EMT-B
o Pediatric Airway 55% 1st pass rate 65-70% overall
o Developing a Statewide Pediatric Airway Curriculum
o Developing an Online Capnography troubleshooting class
Next EMS Advisory Council Meeting Tuesday, May 10, 2016 (11:00am) at Brown Building, Dorthea Dix
Campus; Raleigh.
NO ACTION ITEMS
Respectfully Submitted,
Rob Bednar, MHS, PA-C, NRP
NC OEMS Advisory Liaison
rbednar@unch.unc.edu
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 134 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
NCPHP Liaison Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Daniel Mattingly, NCPHP Liaison
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
1. NCPHP Board of Directors (BOD) conference call February 3, 2016.
A. Announcement of departure of Dr. Warren Pendergast, NCPHP CEO, scheduled to take place in June,
2016.
B. Dr. Greg Taylor, BOD Chair, gave a brief overview of agenda for upcoming BOD meeting on February
17, 2016, and stated the purpose of the conference call was to allow time and opportunity for BOD to
absorb information about Dr. Pendergast’s retirement prior to the meeting.
2. NCPHP Compliance Committee Meeting February 17, 2016.
3. NCPHP Board of Directors Meeting February 17, 2016.
A. Review of bylaws revisions:
i. Incorporation of NC Board of Pharmacy (NCBOP) and NC pharmacy personnel into NCPHP,
including establishment of 2 new directors on NCPHP BOD, to be appointed by the NCBOP, and a
Pharmacy Compliance Committee;
ii. Expansion of the means used for conducting NCPHP BOD and Committee business beyond in-
person meetings, by adding, “remote access including teleconferencing, email or other such
electronic means.”
B. Continuation of ongoing review of policies and procedures. Several P&P updates were voted on and
approved.
C. Financial updates were presented, including:
i. A summary and review of NCPHP finances for 2015;
ii. Changes in fundraising approaches and procedures to adapt to the amalgamation of community health
care organizations into relatively few large parent organizations, resulting in far fewer donors to
NCPHP;
iii. NCPHP Treatment Scholarship Fund update. (This is separate from the NCAPA’s Kober Treatment
Grant Fund, available to eligible PAs.)
D. The BOD met in executive session to discuss plans for restructuring company executive leadership, as
recommended by the state audit, and to fill vacancies. A Search Committee was formed to identify and
vet prospective candidates for CEO. Committee members were selected to represent all of the major
stakeholders, including the NCAPA Liaison.
4. Search Committee met with Jordan, PhD, NCPHP Executive Director on March 2, 2016 to interview him for
the position of CEO.
5. NCPHP Compliance Committee: next meeting scheduled April 20, 2016.
6. A NCAPA Health Committee Task Force is developing a mentoring program for PA participants. Work is
in progress via telecommunication, email and face-to-face meetings of task force members and NCPHP
staff. A conference call is scheduled for April 12, 2016.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 135 of 148
NCPHP PA Participants:
As of the last NCAPA BOD meeting February 20, 2016 there were 29 PA participants. One participant has a
PA mentor. The next meeting with NCPHP staff to obtain an update is scheduled later this month. Updated
information will appear in the next Board report.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals: Continuing responsibilities of NCPHP Liaison.
Action Item: (None)
Respectfully submitted,
Daniel Mattingly
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 136 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Campbell University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Josh Woody, PA-S1; NCAPA Student Director for Campbell University PA Program
The first quarter of 2016 has passed very quickly for the Campbell university Class of 2017. We completed
Block 3 and are half way through Block 4. Block 3 was very busy academically, we covered Cardiology, GI,
Oncology and Surgery. Now into Block 4 we are working on Orthopedics, Endocrine and Renal systems.
Despite the academic load we also managed to stay busy with the Wallace Student Society hosting several
fundraisers. We have had a few successful fund raisers to help support students who will be attending the AAPA
national conference in San Antonio.
In February we took part in the Harnett Smiles event. This was a collaboration with Eastern Carolina University
School of Dental Medicine, Campbell University Public Health and Central Carolina Community College Dental
Hygiene. Free dental check-ups, cleanings and fluoride treatments (applied by Campbell university PA students)
were provided to local children in Harnett County.
Later in February our class organized and staffed a “Paws for a cause” dog washing event. In conjunction with a
local dog grooming store, who allowed us use of their facility, this event raised funds for the Harnett County
Animal shelter.
In February we joined our colleagues at Methodist University to attend a presentation by John Bielinski from
CME4LIFE. It was a great talk that included not only some excellent tips for interpreting EKGs but also some
motivational reminders on how important our role as PAs is to our patient’s health and well being. Many thanks
to the Methodist University PA program for hosting this event and inviting Campbell University to attend.
During Spring Break students went on medical mission trips. One group went to Honduras where they were
joined by colleagues from the Pharmacy, Physical Therapy, and Osteopathic Medicine programs. Joined by
Physician and PA faculty as well as local Physicians they provided medical care to five villages in Honduras that
lacked any medical service.
Another trip went to Guatemala. Their mission was to provide cooking stoves to families to help them transition
from traditional wood burning cooking fires. Using wood fires indoors poses a health issue due to breathing in
the smoky air, by providing new stoves and education they helped to alleviate this problem.
In March PA students volunteered at a Diabetes health education event, in conjunction with the Pharmacy
program and local community vendors. The event was hosted in Erwin, NC and gave the community an
opportunity to learn more about the management and treatment of diabetes.
The most recent service event took place on April 9th when
Campbell University hosted the Inasmuch day of
service health fair. PA students were available to take blood pressures, obtain blood glucose measurements and
provide education on diabetes and hypertension.
Looking forward preparations are in full swing for Make-a-wish golf tournament and the Mass Casualty Incident
event which are being held this Summer.
Respectfully Submitted by,
Josh Woody
PA-S1, Campbell University
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 137 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Duke University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Julianna McCracken, Duke University PA Program Student Representative
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
The Duke University Physician Assistant Class of 2017 is finishing the spring semester, and will be
going into the summer term at the end of the month. We have continued diagnostic methods, pharmacology, and
clinical medicine courses, and completed a surgery course. After learning the full physical exam last semester, it
has been exciting to start taking histories and doing physical exams on standardized and hospitalized patients.
The next semester will include further diagnostic methods, pharmacology, and clinical medicine courses, and we
will start working with patients more in-depth.
Our class has continued to be active in community projects over the past few months. Almost all of us
have been supporting the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, via individual fundraising pages, raffles, and attending
restaurant fundraising nights. A group of us were also able to attend the Durham Crop Walk this year. Earlier in
April we were able to put on an event for a Durham elementary school, Burton elementary. It was a fun
afternoon teaching two fourth grade classes about the importance of nutrition, dental health, self-esteem, hand
washing, and physical activity. In our smaller Duke community, we had another successful clothing fundraiser
selling Duke PA fleeces. We have also continued to learn more about the diverse backgrounds of our peers,
through a cultural potluck and a lunch time discussion from the veterans in our class.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
For the upcoming semester, we’re looking forward to continuing St. Baldrick’s fundraising. The
culminating event will include a 5k, an auction, and a head-shaving event in conjunction with one of the local
restaurants at the beginning of May. We are planning on a second blood drive in June. Many students in our
class also look forward to attending the AAPA conference!
The second semester was successful for the class of 2017, due to an incredible amount of teamwork for
many of the projects. Our upcoming semester should also include some great opportunities.
Respectfully submitted,
Julianna McCracken, PA-S
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 138 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
East Carolina University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Class Notes:
2015
The Class of 2015 has achieved 100% first-time pass rate on the PANCE, which makes four consecutive years of
100% first-time pass rate. The entirety of the class is currently working as PA-Cs, the majority have remained in
North Carolina.
2016
Having started in January, the Class of 2016 is well into their clinical rotations. I have spoken to quite a few
students about their experiences and have heard nothing but positive experiences (except maybe for the hours of
surgery rotations). It has been exciting to hear about the various procedures that students have performed,
including lots of suturing, some digital nerve block injections, lumbar punctures, and many more. A number of
students I spoke with have also been surprised to find that the clinical rotations they were not necessarily the
most excited about have been some of their favorites thus far. The majority of our students are placed at sites
within an hour’s drive from Greenville, NC, which allows for frequent site checks by our clinical coordinator.
However, ECU also places 5-10 students in the Wilmington, NC area each year to help extend our reach to the
underserved areas in the Coastal region of the state.
2017
The Class of 2017 has just passed the midway point of the second semester of our didactic year. The pace of
learning continues to be a challenge, but I think everyone has achieved a better handle on time management as
the semester has progressed. Our class has also continued to have a very collaborative approach to learning and
has made extensive use of our shared Google Drive account. This has allowed us to easily share helpful study
materials and collectively approach learning difficult material; it has really been an invaluable tool. Our current
class schedule currently includes: History and Physical Exam II, Clinical Medicine I, Pharmacology and
Pharmacotherapeutics, and Diagnostic Methods I. We have just turned in our clinical preference forms and we
are eager to find out what and when our rotations will occur. We just got word of the 8 students that will be
moving to Wilmington in December.
Several of our students (myself included) are looking forward to the NCAPA Quiz Bowl, which is conveniently
timed directly before one of our less weeks. At the national level, our SAAAPA representative is looking
forward to traveling to San Antonio for the 2015 AAPA Conference.
2018
The Class of 2018 has been chosen and we are beginning to send out surveys to the incoming students. The
Class of 2017 will partner with incoming students to help transition them into the ECU PA Family and support
them throughout their journey.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ryland Bradley, PA-S
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 139 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Gardner-Webb University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Gardner-Webb University Student Representative
Members: Andrew Rushlow PA-S
Activities Since Last Board Meeting: Our class is continuing to help at the Shelby Soup Kitchen. We are
taking blood pressures and helping set up for the event.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals: Gardner-Webb is going to continue to work at the Soup Kitchen but the
current class is about to start clinicals and the class of 2018 will be taking over for the current class.
ACTION ITEM(s): None
Respectfully submitted,
Andrew Rushlow PA-S
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 140 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
UNC Chapel Hill Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
Inaugural class began January 2016
First semester classes include:
o Physiology, Foundations of Medical Science, Clinical Medicine I, Wellness, Diagnostic
Methods, Pharmacology, Anatomy, History & Physical Exam, Professionalism
Wellness class once a month with a health coach, the most recent session
included time management skills
Hospital encounters with various patients to practice history taking
Pelvic Exam training with Men’s and Women’s Teaching Groups
Involvement with Pre-PA UNC Society to increase awareness of program and educate on PA
school preparation
o Joint Relay for Life participation
Class activities including potlucks and outings
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
Working to increase community involvement
o Incorporating PA students into volunteer opportunities with SHAC-Student Health
Action Coalition
Presenting on public health information related to underserved counties in NC
o Student pairs assigned to various counties and tasked to reach out to local PAs and health
departments to gather information concerning health parameters
Recruitment for Class of 2018 underway: Admissions applications close August 1st and
interviews will begin in September
Respectfully submitted,
Natalie Ford, PA-S
NCAPA Student Representative
UNC School of Medicine
Department of Allied Health Sciences
Division of Physician Assistant Studies
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 141 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Wake Forest University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Report From: Wake Forest University Student Representative
Members: Autumn Eliason
Activities since Last Board Meeting:
Faculty and Program News
o Wake Forest Department of PA Studies joined with the American Academy of PA’s
Center for Healthcare Leadership and Management to host a 2-day healthcare
administration and executive leadership conference for PA’s. The focus of this
conference was on Healthcare Administation and Executive Leadership. This conference
hosted 118 PA’s and provided a great opportunity to discuss emerging trends in PA
administration.
First Year Students Class of 2017
o First year students have begun their last didactic unit which includes Nephrology and the
Urogenital systems. They are looking forward to clinical rotations and have recently
received their rotation schedules! Rotations will begin June 27th and students will have
the opportunity to travel to various states for their rotations, including Hawaii!
o The students recently attended a lecture on leadership from Counselman Montegomery.
This was an insightful lecture that helped remind students of their roles as leaders in the
community and as future medical providers.
o Wake Forest is proud to be the first PA program to support a Christan Medical & Dental
Chapter (CMDA) for their students. The next meeting will be held this month at the
Winston-Salem campus.
Second Year Students Class of 2016
o The second year students are in their last of eleven rotations! They are enjoying the
challenges of rotations, studying for the PANCE, attending interviews and looking into
contracts to sign for jobs after graduation!
o In their callback to campus in March, second year students completed their Graduate
Project defense and will present their posters at a Graduate Project Symposium on May
5th, 2016.
Student Activities
o Students in Boone recently volunteered at the Hospitality House of Boone by helping to
cook, prep and serve food for those staying at the house.
o Students in Winston-Salem have continued to serve their community by participating in
Habitat for Humanity on April 2nd
and in the Brenner’s Auction by helping to check in,
set up the event and sell raffle tickets on April 8th.
NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 142 of 148
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
There is an upcoming Wilderness Medicine trip planned for the weekend of April 16th in which
students will spend a weekend camping and learning how to provide medicine in the wilderness.
Students will continue to participate in elective courses that Wake Forest offers students in
addition to the normal curriculum. This includes a humanities elective called “Sacred Seven” and
an elective Leadership course. These courses help students become well-rounded providers that
consider all aspects of medicine.
First year students are ready to welcome the Class of 2018 and to start our mentoring program of
providing new students with Big Brothers and Sisters!
Students are looking forward to attending the AAPA conference in May and are working to
finalize fundraisers for this event.
Respectfully submitted,
Autumn Eliason
NCAPA Student Representative
Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Department of Physician Assistant Studies
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 143 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Wingate University Student Representative Report April 23, 2016
Academics:
The class of 2017 is preparing to complete our final exams next week and start our summer
session. It is hard to believe that we will begin rotations in about 4 months. This semester provided a few
unique opportunities for our students. A few students were able to volunteer at a refugee clinic alongside
a PA student from the class of 2016. All the students who were lucky enough to have this opportunity
said that they really enjoyed getting to learn from the class of 2016, and practice what they have learned
during didactic year. Students were also given the opportunity to observe autopsies in groups of four at
the Mecklenburg County Medical Examiners office located in Charlotte, NC. Everyone indicated that
they left the experience having a deeper understanding and appreciation of human anatomy.
The class of 2016 has thoroughly enjoyed their second clinical semester. Each month they come
back to Wingate to take their end of rotation exams and present unique patient cases. The class of 2017
has been fortunate enough to attend some of these presentations, and have learned a lot about patient care
and disease presentation.
Fundraising:
The class of 2016 held Wingate’s first “PA prom” on January 16th. This formal was a huge
success and raised enough for our AAPA representative to be able to attend the national conference in
Texas this May. We were most excited about donating $1,000 of the funds raised to the Sandbox
organization. As indicated in the last board report, this organization is local to Charlotte and helps host
events, give support, and raise money for families in the area with children fighting cancer or other life
altering illnesses. We hope that the PA prom can become a tradition for Wingate’s PA Program.
Community Service:
A representative from the Sandbox came to Wingate and trained many of our students to be
certified volunteers. This means that our students will be able to help out with events that the Sandbox
holds. We all hope to be able to volunteer at their “prom” they hold for their families in September.
Some of our first year students volunteered at the Men’s Shelter in Charlotte, providing BP
screening and HEENT exams under the supervision of one of our professors. Students loved being able to
give back to the community and practice their physical exam skills in preparation for rotations. We hope
to make this an annual event.
On April 16th, the class is sponsoring the “5K Against Human Trafficking” which will be held at
in Charlotte, NC. Some students are running in the race, while others are planning on setting up a snack
table for runners/walkers. The class is looking forward to this opportunity to give back to the community
prior to finals starting.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jessica Jansson, PA- S
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 144 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Campbell University PA Program Director Report January 23, 2016
TOM COLLETTI, DHSC, MPAS, PA-C; CHAIR & DIRECTOR CAMPBELL UNIVERSITY PA
PROGRAM
ACTIVITY REPORT
Students Activities:
Class of 2015 achieved a 98% First Time Pass rate on the PANCE
Students and faculty are planning a Mass Casualty Incident event for June 18. CapRAC will
participate and bring the mobile hospital and tents. Local EMS will participate. WakeMed
medevac will participate. The event is held on the ground of Levine Hall.
CASPA admissions cycle opens third week in April
o 45 Seats filled for the Class of 2018
Two PAS-1 students, Maegan Hewett and Alexandra Miller, accompanied by Mr. Pineiro went
on the very successful CU Mission trip to Honduras over Spring Break
Faculty Activities:
Faculty Publications:
o Colletti, T.; Salisbury, H.; Hertelendy, A.; & Tseng, T. Relationship between Physician
Assistant Program Length and PANCE Pass Rates. J Physician Assist Educ.
2016:27(1):3-6.
o Colletti, T. Physician assistant postgraduate education. JAAPA. 2016; 29(3): 41-46.
Mrs. Gerstner served as a facilitator for the Clinical Coordinators PAEA Workshop in March
Mrs. Gerstner will be the MC for the NCAPA Student Challenge Bowl next month
All CUPA faculty completed BLS recertification.
Dr. Colletti attended the NCMB Physician Assistant Advisory Council meeting March 16
Mrs. Pope was on the CPHS Planning Committee for the CME presentation “Hypertension
Management Update” on March 1, 2016
Departmental Activities:
The PA program will move into the new Smith Hall on the Health Sciences Campus in May
2016. This building is shared with PT and Nursing.
Progress Report on Work Plan Assignments: N/A
ACTION ITEM: N/A
Respectfully submitted,
Thomas Colletti, DHSc, MPAS, PA-C
Chair & Director
Campbell PA Program
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 145 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Duke University PA Program Director Report January 23, 2016
Report From: Duke University PA Program
Activities Since Last Board Meeting:
Alumni Update
An alumni reception will be held at the AAPA conference in San Antonio, TX
Class of 2015
Have a 99% PANCE pass rate to date.
Class of 2016
Are in rotation # 9. They will receive their MHS degree May 15th.
Six members of the class are joining faculty Perri Morgan and Karen Hills along with several
alumni in a Primary Care in Cuba course that will include a people to people exchange the week
of April 23rd
.
Class of 2017
Students have participated in a number of service projects including the Durham CROP Walk and
are raising money to fight childhood cancer with a St. Baldrick’s Fundraiser.
Faculty and Staff
Maria Ayscue has joined the PA program team as a staff specialist.
Plans for Future Activities/Goals:
Admissions for the class of 2018 wrapped up. Students will matriculate in August.
Respectfully submitted,
Karen J. Hills, MS, PA-C
Program Director
Associate Professor
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 146 of 148
North Carolina Academy of Physician Assistants
Piedmont Association of Physician Assistants (PAPA) Report January 23, 2016
2015 Officers
President: Ashlyn Bruning, PA-C
Vice President: Sunnie Flowers, PA-C
Secretary: Brandon Blank, PA-C
Treasurer: John Cain, PA-C
Directors at Large: Jill Connor, PA-C, Aly Codrick, PA-C, Andrea Whitley, PA-C
Student Representative: Megan Smith, PA-S1 (WFU), Christina Saldanha, PA-S1 (HPU)
Webmaster: Courtney Hughes, PA-C
PAPA Membership:
Fellows: 94 total: 81 PAs, 13 NPs
PA Students: 32
Chapter Activity in 2015 to date:
Maintained 501c6 and incorporation status
CME committee has worked diligently to secure educational grants for this calendar year,
however, the climate seems to have become more difficult again and funds have not been
obtained as of yet, despite continued attempts.
Planning underway for the 19th Annual Fall Seminar – October 15
th 2016 at Forsyth Medical
Center Conference Center – In the process of recruiting Speakers and Exhibitors.
Member Education:
CME- I AAPA Approved Meetings
2-2-16 "Evaluation and Management of the Dizzy Patient"
3-24-16 "Evaluation and Management of Hypercalcemia"
4-5-16 "Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding"
5-3-16 (scheduled) “Asthma: A Current Update”
CME- II Meetings
1-14-16 “Immunization Update: Pneumoccocal vaccination”
1-26-16 “Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis Management: Treatment Options and Advances”
2-9-16 “IBS-D: Understanding the Patient, the Diagnosis and a New Treatment Option”
2-16-16 “Tresiba Clinical Overview”
2-25-16 “Toujeo: A Basal Insulin to Improve Glycemic Control in Adults with Diabetes”
3-8-16 “Gout: Evaluation and Treatment Options”
3-17-16 “The Science of Obesity and Appetite Regulation”
3-29-16 “Non-obstructive and Microvascular Angina”
4-12-16 “Understanding Unplanned Pregnancy and Use of Contraceptives”
4-21-16 “The Effect of a Once Weekly Injectable Therapy on the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes”
4-28-16 (scheduled) “ Efficacy and Safety of Ranexa”
Respectfully submitted,
Ashlyn Bruning, MMS, PA-C
PAPA President
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 147 of 148
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NCAPA Board Book April 23, 2016 Page 148 of 148
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