Practice Analyses Projects Continue to Progress
The BOC continues updating the practice analyses that guide the Athletic Trainer and Orthopedic Specialty Exams and inform continuing education. The Athletic Trainer Practice Analysis, 9th Edition (PA9) and Orthopedic Practice Analysis 2nd Edition (OPA2) are moving forward as part of this ongoing work.
The BOC updates each practice analysis approximately every five years as athletic training practice evolves. This regular process helps ensure each exam reflects current practice and meets BOC accreditation requirements set by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
Development of the PA9, which began in 2025, has progressed to its final phase. After reviewing the nationwide survey results, the PA9 Task Force provided updated recommendations to the BOC Board of Directors. The Board reviewed and approved the Task Force’s report in fall 2026.
PA9 will be published and available for purchase in early 2027. Its findings will update the BOC exam blueprint, including domain weights, beginning with the March/April 2028 AT Exam window and will take effect for continuing education in February 2028.
Work is also underway on the OPA2. The OPA2 Task Force administered a nationwide survey in fall 2026 designed to measure the current knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for entry-level orthopedic specialty practice. The Task Force has analyzed survey responses and will review the results, recommending any changes needed to the domains, tasks, or knowledge/skill statements in OPA2.
The BOC Specialty Council will approve revisions to the orthopedic practice analysis. Findings will be used to update the Orthopedic Specialty Exam blueprint, including domain weights, and inform future continuing education requirements. OPA2 will be published and available for purchase in 2027 and will take effect for the Orthopedic Specialty Exam beginning with the February 2028 exam window and for continuing education in 2028.
