When performing routine follow-up calls to patients, which of the following actions should a medical assistant take first to notify the provider if the patient provides an unsatisfactory progress report?

When performing routine follow-up calls to patients, if a patient reports unsatisfactory progress, the immediate priority is to notify the provider. This action is crucial because it ensures that the healthcare team is aware of any issues the patient is facing, allowing for timely intervention or adjustments to the treatment plan. The provider may need to reassess the patient's condition or recommend alternative treatments based on the feedback from the patient.

While documenting the call and scheduling another appointment are important steps that should eventually be taken, they cannot precede the need for the provider's awareness of the situation. Providing educational materials may also be beneficial, but it is secondary to ensuring that the provider has all relevant information regarding the patient's progress. The unique nature of healthcare emphasizes the need for communication with the provider to address and resolve any concerns effectively.