So you’ve decided you’re interested in becoming an orthopedic physician assistant, but you’re not quite sure where to get started. We’ve put together a short guide to answer your questions about pursuing a career as an OPA.
What is an OPA?
Orthopedic surgery physician assistants are trained, skilled healthcare professionals who typically work in the operation room alongside licensed orthopedic surgeons.
Orthopaedic physician assistants are not to be confused with physician assistants in orthopedics. Both professions provide support to orthopedic physicians, but the scope of practice for an OPA is more limited than that of PA. OPAs are specifically trained in the field of orthopedic surgery, while regular physician assistants practice general medicine.
What are some key skills?
Candidates interested in becoming an OPA should have a basic understanding of orthopedic medicine and be able to perform properly under variable amounts of stress. A typical day in the life of an orthopedic physician assistant requires stamina, and a compassionate and caring attitude towards patients and their families, as well as fellow co-workers.
What does the career path look like?
Step 1: Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree
The prerequisites for most PA, NP and OPA programs include human anatomy, physics, biology, microbiology and chemistry. Medical terminology, pathophysiology and pharmacology are good courses to take in order to get ahead are prepare for schooling ahead. It is highly recommended that candidates complete at least two years of coursework in basic and behavioral sciences before sitting for the Certification Examination for Orthopaedic Physician’s Assistants, but it is not required.
On average, four-and-a-half years of experience are required for application to a graduate program. Paid or voluntary work experience in healthcare is often required by most colleges in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program. Here is a full list of PA programs and their requirements.
Step 2: Completions of a Graduate Program
A nurse practitioner program, primary care physician assistant program or orthopedic physician assistant program are each sufficient in the preparation of launching a student’s career as an OPA. The American Medical Association ceased to accredit OPA programs in 1974. Graduates in other types of programs will need experience in orthopedics in order to qualify for certification.
You might want to join the American Society of Orthopedic Physician Assistants, which gives students access to job listings, industry updates and a discount for the ASOPA annual meeting. Being an ASOPA member also qualifies students to get a discount on their certification exam fee and future recertification credits.
Step 3: Become a Certified OPA
Certification for OPAs can be obtained through the National Board for Certification of Orthopaedic Physician Assistants. Candidates can take the certification exam only if they have the requisite experience and the appropriate academic qualification.
The 75-question test is available at computer-based testing centers and must be completed within two hours. The exam covers specific conditions of the musculoskeletal system and corresponding treatment options. Anatomy and physiology, physical examination procedures, orthopedic history, laboratory studies and imaging studies are also featured on the exam. Candidates can prepare for the exam by taking an online practice test offered by the NBCOPA and checking out the NBCOPA Resource Study Guide Reference List.
Step 4: Become Licensed
Some states require licensure for OPAs. Standard application requirements include completion of an approved education program and a passing score on the NBCOPA exam. Additional experience requirements can be specified, depending on the education program completed. Professionals seeking licensure should check with their state to determine the exact requirements.
Step 5: Meet Continuing Education Requirements and Maintain Licensure
At least 120 hours of continuing medical education class credits are required every four years in order to maintain certified. OPAs must also pay a recertification fee to the NBCOPA. Some states require OPAs to complete a periodic license renewal procedure, which involves paying a fee, submitting evidence of CME credits, and going through an evaluation conducted by the licensing board.
Step 6: Advance in the Field
In order to advance to a higher position with more responsibilities, OPAs should continue to focus on gaining experience. After several years, OPAs may be able to take a supervisory position that allows them to guide and help less experienced OPAs and other staff.
With a median yearly salary of around $90,000 a year, OPAs are amongst the highest paid professionals in their niche.
By Sarah Sharpe, So You Want to Become an Orthopaedic Physician Assistant , on healthecareers.com