Which statement best describes ARC-PA's function?

• A. Sets standards for PA education and evaluates programs for compliance
• B. Accredits hospitals
• C. Licenses PAs to practice
• D. Provides funding for PA schools

Answer: (A)

ARC-PA serves as the specialized accrediting body for physician assistant education programs. It sets the standards that PA programs must meet and conducts evaluations—often through a combination of self-study reports and site visits—to verify programs comply with those standards. This accreditation signals that a program provides education aligned with national expectations and that its graduates are prepared for the certification and licensure processes. It does not license individual PAs, oversee hospitals, or provide funding for schools; those roles belong to state licensing boards, hospital accrediting bodies, and funding sources, respectively. Accreditation by ARC-PA helps graduates be eligible to sit for the certification exam and pursue licensure in their state.