Final answer:
The CMA should communicate with the patient, apologize for the delay, and advocate on behalf of the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the physician is behind and a patient has been waiting past their scheduled appointment, the CMA should communicate with the patient to let them know the situation and provide an updated wait time. Additionally, the CMA should apologize for the delay and assure the patient that their care is important. It is also important for the CMA to advocate on behalf of the patient by informing the physician about the situation and requesting their attention as soon as possible.