A client needs medical services from different specialists. Who should be in charge of organizing the services provided to the patient?

• A. A nurse
• B. A physician
• C. A care coordinator
• D. A healthcare administrator

Answer: (C)

Coordinating care across multiple specialists requires a single point of contact who can pull all the pieces together into a cohesive plan. A care coordinator is specifically tasked with organizing referrals, scheduling appointments, sharing information among the patient and various providers, and monitoring progress to keep the care plan on track. This role ensures continuity of care, reduces duplication of tests or visits, and helps the patient follow through with recommended treatments.

A nurse helps with clinical care and may assist with coordination within a specific setting, but they’re not typically the primary organizer across multiple specialties. A physician makes medical decisions and directs care within their scope, but isn’t usually responsible for coordinating all specialists and services across the broader care continuum. A healthcare administrator handles the organizational and financial side of care delivery, not the day-to-day clinical coordination and communication with multiple providers and the patient.