Starting in March, Board Certified PAs can earn their Occupational Medicine Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ).

This new Occupational Medicine CAQ was developed in response to interest from the Association of PAs in Occupational Medicine (APAOM).The NCCPA Board of Directors approved the specialty certificate following its proposal.

President and CEO of NCCPA Dawn Morton-Rias, Ed.D, PA-C, ICE-CCP, FACHE said PAs in occupational medicine play a crucial role in the well-being of workers across various industries.

“As the demand for specialized health care professionals continues to grow, PAs are increasingly stepping into roles within occupational medicine, bringing their unique skills and expertise to enhance workplace health and safety,” said Morton-Rias.

There are 1,614 PAs who currently practice in occupational medicine, according to the NCCPA 2023 Statistical Profile of Board Certified PAs by Specialty.

The inaugural Occupational Medicine CAQ exam takes place from March 17-22, 2025. An accompanying practice exam is also available and interested candidates can apply for the exam via the PA Portal.

“PAs are well-suited for this specialty,” said Josh Goodman, VP of Research and Exam Programs at NCCPA. “The introduction of the Occupational Medicine CAQ is a significant step forward for the profession, providing PAs with the credentials needed to excel in this field. We encourage PAs interested in this CAQ to apply early.”

To learn more about the 11 CAQs currently offered through NCCPA, click here.