Final answer:
A medical assistant is required to copy both the front and back of a patient's insurance card to keep accurate records and ensure all details are readily available for billing and insurance claims.
Step-by-step explanation:
The medical assistant should copy the front and back of the patient's insurance card. This step is crucial as it helps maintain accurate records and ensures that all the necessary information is on file for billing and verification purposes. Insurance cards contain vital details such as policy numbers, coverage limits, and contact information for insurance claims, which can be referenced quickly when copied correctly.