A patient with a new prescription is at the medical office. The prescription is for a non-formulary medication that requires prior authorization. What is the most appropriate next step for the medical assistant to ensure the medication is covered and dispensed to the patient?
Contact the healthcare provider to immediately change the prescription to a formulary medication.
Schedule a follow-up appointment for the patient to discuss alternative treatments.
Initiate the prior authorization process with the insurance company for the prescribed medication.
Inform the patient that the medication is non-formulary and advise them to pay the full cost out-of-pocket.