Final answer:
The medical assistant should first confirm insurance coverage and dermatologist acceptance of it, gather the patient's medical information for the referral, schedule an appointment with the dermatologist, and inform the patient of all the details.
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 confirm that the dermatology practice accepts their insurance. Following this, the assistant would gather all necessary referral information, such as the patient's medical records, reason for dermatology referral, and any preliminary diagnosis or concerns noted by the primary care provider.
Next, the assistant would contact the dermatologist's office to schedule an appointment, providing them with the patient's information and medical background. The medical assistant should ensure to communicate any urgent needs or specific concerns that may affect appointment scheduling or treatment options. The final step is to inform the patient of the referral details, including the appointment time and any preparations needed before visiting the dermatologist's office.