Chapter 16: Healthcare and the Professional Medical Assistant

What are common MA clinical duties?

Vital signs, patient history, exam assistance, ECG, phlebotomy, injections, and specimen collection within scope.

What are common MA administrative duties?

Scheduling, reception, records, billing support, coding support, and telephone communication.

What is professionalism?

Dependable, ethical, respectful behavior that supports patient care.

What is scope of practice?

Legal boundaries of tasks a professional may perform.

Can a medical assistant diagnose illness?

No.

Can a medical assistant prescribe medications?

No.

Can a medical assistant interpret diagnostic results independently?

No. The provider interprets and discusses diagnosis/treatment.

What is the chain of command?

Facility structure for reporting concerns or seeking guidance.

What should an MA do after making an error?

Report immediately according to policy, ensure patient safety, and document honestly.

What are hospitals commonly classified as?

For-profit, nonprofit, and government-operated institutions.

What is ambulatory care?

Care provided to patients who are not hospitalized overnight.

What is urgent care?

Walk-in care for non-life-threatening urgent conditions.

What should the MA do when patient needs exceed office resources?

Notify provider and assist with referral/EMS per protocol.