A patient has a telehealth appointment with the provider to discuss a new diagnosis. Which of the following actions should the medical assistant take to ensure an effective visit?

While educational videos can be beneficial, they do not facilitate direct interaction between the patient and the provider. Videos are typically passive learning tools and may not address specific concerns or questions the patient might have regarding their new diagnosis. Therefore, they do not ensure an effective visit as much as direct engagement does.

Providing handouts can supplement the information shared during the appointment, but like videos, they are a one-way communication method. Handouts alone do not allow the patient to engage in dialogue or ask clarifying questions, which is crucial for effective understanding and care in a telehealth setting.

While assertive communication is important for healthcare providers to convey information clearly, it does not prioritize patient engagement. An assertive approach may ensure the provider's message is delivered effectively, but without encouraging the patient to ask questions, the visit may lack the interactive element necessary for a comprehensive understanding of their diagnosis.