3. patient screening, interview & health history

Screening

The process of obtaining information to determine who will be most beneficial to handle the patient's needs.

Where screening and interview occur

In the examination room.

Purpose of screening

To help the patient focus on the chief complaint.

Documenting chief complaint

Document in the patient's own words.

In-person screening medication inquiry

Ask about all prescribed and nonprescribed medications.

Role determination during screening

The provider determines what the medical assistant does during in-person screening.

Follow-up visit focus

Focus on how the patient has felt since the last office visit.

Incomplete health-history form

Tactfully offer assistance to the patient.

Social/occupational history purpose

Helps identify lifestyle factors and occupational exposures that may contribute to disease or health conditions.

Importance of work history

May reveal past exposure to occupational hazards.

Medical assistant role during telehealth

Help ensure the patient understands how to join the appointment.

Review of systems (ROS)

Recorded and performed by the provider according to this test.

Steps after health history and vital signs

Explain what happens next, ask about questions, and thank the patient (the MA does not perform the ROS).