When a spouse calls for medical test results, what should the medical assistant first do?

In a medical setting, patient confidentiality is paramount due to regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). When a spouse calls for medical test results, the first step for the medical assistant is to check if the spouse is authorized to receive that information. This ensures that the privacy of the patient is respected and that sensitive information is only shared with individuals who have the right to access it.

Authorization typically involves having the patient’s explicit consent to share medical information with specific individuals. Without confirming this authorization, sharing results could lead to potential legal issues or breaches of confidentiality. This protocol not only safeguards patient privacy but also fosters trust in the healthcare provider-patient relationship.

When appropriate to share information, there are still layers of communication and consent that follow, but verifying authorization should always come first.