What should a medical assistant do first when a patient gives an unsatisfactory progress report during a follow-up call?

When a patient reports an unsatisfactory progress during a follow-up call, the most appropriate first step is to notify the provider immediately. This action is crucial because it ensures that the healthcare professional is aware of the patient's condition and any potential issues that may require urgent attention. The provider may need to assess the situation further or adjust the patient's treatment plan based on the reported concerns.

In cases of unsatisfactory progress, timely intervention can significantly affect patient outcomes. For instance, if a patient is experiencing worsening symptoms or complications, the healthcare provider might decide to escalate care or explore other treatment options promptly. Notifying the provider allows for a coordinated response to the patient's needs.

While other actions, such as scheduling an appointment, documenting the conversation, or providing reassurance, are important in the broader context of patient care, the priority is to ensure that the provider knows about the unsatisfactory progress as it could lead to necessary changes in the patient's management.