Question

A medical assistant received instructions from a primary care provider to refer a patient to a dermatologist. Which of the following actions should the assistant take first?

Answer 1

The first action a medical assistant should take when referring a patient to a dermatologist is to verify the patient's insurance coverage and referral requirements, before scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a medical assistant receives instructions from a primary care provider to refer a patient to a dermatologist, the first action they should take is to verify the patient's insurance coverage and referral requirements. This is critical because dermatologists diagnose and treat skin conditions that may require specific referral protocols. Once insurance and referral details are confirmed, the medical assistant can proceed to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist.

Steps for Medical Assistant:

Verify patient insurance and referral requirements.

Identify a suitable dermatologist who can address the patient's specific skin condition.

1. Schedule an appointment and inform the patient of the date, time, and any preparation needed prior to the visit.