National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Physicians Assistants (NBCOPA)
Certification of Orthopedic Physicians Assistants is administered by the
National Board for Certification of Orthopedic Physician's Assistants (NBCOPA). The NBCOPA certification process formally recognizes individuals who meet the requirements of NBCOPA, and encourages professional growth of the physician's assistants. The successful candidates can use the credential OPA-C. The American Society of Orthopedic Physician's Assistants (ASOPA) caters to the continued professional development and education of OPAs.
Exam Details (Click to Expand/Collapse)
- The exam is conducted in both a computer-based format at regional test centers through the US with the assistance of the Professional Testing Corporation.
- Candidates can maintain certification by continuing medical education (CME).
- Re-certification requires a minimum of 120 hours of CME credit every four years and payment of the appropriate fees. Current OPA-Cs who are ASOPA members are required to pay $2 per CME credit while non-members pay $5 per CME credit. If the OPA-C does not complete the 120 CME hours within their four year cycle, the candidate is required to sit for the examination again to re-certify
Exam Format (Click to Expand/Collapse)
- The exam has of 250 multiple choice objective test questions.
- The questions are developed by individuals with expertise in orthopedics and reviewed by NBCOPA.
- Handbook and application form are available at the web site.
- The exam is four hours.
Exam Content (Click to Expand/Collapse)
- Physiology and Anatomy -15%
- Musculoskeletal Conditions – 30%
- Orthopedic History & Physical Exam – 10%
- Laboratory Studies and Imaging – 10%
- Treatment of Musculoskeletal System – 35%
The NBCOPA exam also requires an entry level of knowledge in the following:,
- Pharmacology
- Assessment & treatment of pediatric and adult orthopedic injuries and diseases.
- Techniques and Principles of operative procedures
- Applications and Functions of equipment and instrumentation used in operative orthopedic procedures
- Techniques and principles of casting splint applications and traction
- Physical assessment and Clinical evaluation.
Preparing for the Test
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NBCOPA Study Guide
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