As a medical assistant or any professional in the health care industry it is critically important to build rapport with the patient. The better the rapport, the better the following communications, including a patient's openness to discussing these issues. In addition, the medical assistant should continue to assess for the patient's needs and be aware of lifestyle attitudes and awareness. The next steps should involve an interactive discussion, along with takeaway information or pamphlets that can be easily understood by the patient. A follow-up discussion should take place to gauge the patient's understanding of the information that was provided.