Final answer:
When a patient's account is turned over to a collection agency, a medical assistant should arrange a payment plan with the patient and document the agreement.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient calls the office wanting to make payment arrangements after their account has been turned over to a collection agency, the medical assistant should arrange a payment plan with the patient and document the agreement. It is important to provide the patient with options to meet their financial obligations while ensuring that the payment plan is feasible and reasonable for both parties. Referring the patient back to the collection agency or refusing to discuss payment arrangements would not be appropriate actions in this situation. Additionally, advising the patient to pay the entire amount upfront may not be realistic for the patient's financial situation.