1. Where can I find more information regarding the Biopsy Processing and Simple Dissection Certification routes?
https://www.cap-acp.org/New_certification_routes_2025.php

2. When will the exam for the non-PA grossing routes be ready?
January 1, 2025.

3. Is there an end date for these new routes?
Not currently.

4. In the eblast it states that non-PA grossing routes are for those currently in grossing technologist and technician roles - does this mean that only those individuals currently in these roles can use this route/certification?
No – this is just who are most traditionally in these roles.

5. What are some of the Canadian certification bodies accepted by CCCPA-CCCAP to be eligible for the Biopsy Processing certification route?
- Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS)
- Medical Laboratory Professionals' Association of Ontario (MLPAO)

6. Can these individuals work shifts where a PA or pathologists is not in the building (available only by phone) or do they need to be directly supervised?
Supervision for PAs is usually defined by specimen type. Each organization should perform their own analysis and risk assessment to see which specimens (and done by whom) should be indirectly or directly supervised. A good guide for this is the College of American Pathologists accreditation guidelines for complex testing.

7. If your site has only uncertified PAs, can they train/or sign off on training or would this responsibility then fall to the pathologist?
Sign off on training will be the responsibility of the Pathologist if no CCCPA-CCCAP or ASCP certified PA is available.

8. Do the non-PA grossing professionals need to have the minimum educational requirements before beginning to gross, or would having the minimum requirements prior to writing the exam suffice?
Having the minimum educational requirements prior to writing the exam is sufficient.

9. What do I do if my institution does not offer the specimen types required on the experience checklist?
Please see the appeals process page.

10. Are non-neoplastic bowels included in luminal specimens required for certification?
No.

11.   If a candidate fails their exam, can they still be employed as a grossing professional?
This is up to the individuals institution hiring and safety practices. CCCPA-CCCAP is strictly responsible for administering the certification process.

12.   Once certification occurs, will there be a database similar to certified PAs to track successful candidates?
Yes.

13.   Are there any educational resources available to people who want to pursue a career as a non-PA grossing professional?
Yes. Please check out the CAP-ACP PA Section website for more information.