Which of the following is within the medical assistant's scope of practice?

Obtaining patient history is a fundamental responsibility that falls within the medical assistant's scope of practice. This task involves gathering essential information from patients, which helps healthcare providers make informed decisions about diagnosis and treatment options. Medical assistants are trained to ask relevant questions, document responses accurately, and keep the practice's workflow efficient, all while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines.

While other options, such as recommending a diagnosis and prescribing medication, involve clinical decision-making that is typically reserved for licensed healthcare providers, obtaining patient history relies on the medical assistant's training to facilitate communication and documentation. This role is critical in the patient care process, ensuring that health providers have the necessary background to offer appropriate medical advice and interventions. Performing a physical assessment is also outside the medical assistant's typical responsibilities, as it requires advanced training beyond their scope.