Certified Clinical Medical Assistant CCMA Practice Test

An MA is speaking with a pt. who has seasonal allergies. Which of the following health care providers should the assistant identify as being able to make a diagnosis and initiate the necessary treatment?

1. Physical Therapist

2. Cardiovascular Technologist

3. Physician

4. Physicians Assistant

The correct answer is: Physicians Assistant

The most appropriate choice is a physician. This healthcare provider can make a diagnosis regarding seasonal allergies and initiate the necessary treatment because they have the required medical training and expertise to evaluate the patient's condition. A physician typically completes extensive education and clinical training, which includes the ability to take patient histories, conduct examinations, and prescribe medications. In the case of seasonal allergies, the physician would be able to differentiate between various allergy types, perform any necessary testing, and develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the patient's needs. While physician assistants are also capable of diagnosing conditions and initiating treatment, they work under the supervision of a physician and might consult with them in complex cases or when making significant treatment decisions. However, a physician is the primary healthcare provider fully equipped to handle such cases independently.