This appointment system, utilized within healthcare settings, involves scheduling multiple patients to arrive at the beginning of the same hour. Rather than assigning specific appointment times to each patient, they are seen in the order of their arrival or according to the immediate needs of the practice. For example, a medical office might schedule four patients for 9:00 AM, with the understanding that the actual time each patient is seen will vary based on the duration of their individual appointments and provider availability.
The primary advantage of this methodology lies in its ability to accommodate unforeseen delays or variations in appointment lengths. It provides a buffer, preventing the schedule from falling significantly behind due to longer-than-anticipated patient encounters. Historically, this approach has been adopted by practices seeking to maximize efficiency and patient throughput, especially in situations where appointment durations are difficult to predict. Furthermore, it can reduce idle time for medical staff, enhancing overall productivity.
