Nine Scheduling Techniques to Improve Patient Workflowimaging.ubmmedica.com/all/editorial/physicianspractice/pdfs/Nine... · Nine Scheduling Techniques to Improve Patient Work Flow

Expand the appointment schedule by shortening the lunch break by 30 minutes to see two or three additional patients each day.

Consider adding a scribe to document the visit notes for the provider.

Review charts the day before and make sure diagnostic tests have been completed and reports are on file for each patient.

Based on historical data, create more flexible appointment time-slots, rather than only having 15-minute or 30-minute appointments.

Automate patient check-in.

Ask patients to jot down their clinical questions before they are roomed, and have the nurse review them to prepare for the visit.

Reduce the time necessary to weigh patients by having a scale in each room.

Delegate tasks that do not require the physician's expertise by training staff to assume more responsibilities.

Add a part-time provider during peak hours to improve access, service, and efficiency.