Office Administrative Assistant Practice Exam

Which of these is outside the scope of practice for the Medical Administrative Assistant?

1. Scheduling appointments

2. Answering clinical questions

3. Maintaining patient records

4. Processing insurance claims

The correct answer is: Answering clinical questions

The choice regarding answering clinical questions is outside the scope of practice for a Medical Administrative Assistant because this role is primarily focused on administrative tasks rather than clinical responsibilities. Medical Administrative Assistants handle tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and processing insurance claims, all of which are essential for the smooth operation of a medical facility. However, clinical questions often require medical knowledge or expertise, which falls under the responsibilities of healthcare providers like doctors or nurses. This limitation ensures that patients receive accurate information from qualified professionals, maintaining the quality of care and adhering to healthcare regulations.