Using Patient Scheduling Software to Ease the Burden of Getting Patients In

Whether it is the first time or the 100th time, we should ask ourselves what impressions we are creating with our behaviors in our chiropractic practice. When patients call to schedule an appointment, what is their experience?

If you’ve never really thought about different options for scheduling, you will soon see how using patient scheduling software can benefit patients, doctors, and front-office staff. It is easy to integrate and to use, and it leaves a more desirable first impression than being on hold.

Here are the advantages of using EHR software to help manage scheduling your patients and an overview of how an investment in automating this process could pay dividends with customer satisfaction and client acquisition.

• Mobility: This is almost considered a norm, not a luxury for consumers today. We expect that we can shop while riding the bus, listen to a podcast on a run, and set up appointments at home. Patient scheduling software is no different. It allows the client to have full mobility when making appointments.
• Flexibility: Providing a real-time view of what times are available aids your patient in their scheduling process. This allows the client to find a time that works for them without the back and forth of a scheduler.
• Efficiency: New clients will save time through online scheduling. Besides quickly scheduling an appointment, they can also complete initial intake paperwork before visiting the office, a much better option than having to come in twenty minutes early to complete paper forms.
• Accommodating: Patients can schedule on their own schedule and at their own pace. In other health care organizations with online patient scheduling, 60% of appointments were scheduled outside of business hours.
• Calendar: Because most patients use their mobile device as their calendar/planner, having their appointment emailed and confirmed provides the information that they need to add to their calendar.

Patient scheduling software works for the client, but what about at the backend for the front-office staff? Here are positive factors to consider:

• Software creates ease of use for office staff. With transferability between office locations, all scheduled information is stored in one place and updated instantly when patients schedule appointments or complete intake paperwork.
• Schedule management is easier on the backend. Gaps and holes in the week can be filled by the clients as they schedule, creating a more efficient day that’s tailored to the needs of the chiropractor and their team.
• If you prefer more of a personal touch, have your scheduler call the person to verify the appointment date and time. Personal connection is one reason that chiropractors hesitate to make the move to online scheduling, but this can happen in other, more beneficial ways than patients sitting on hold waiting to talk to someone.
• If the software can replace the former scheduler, this is a chance to cut margins and save money. Working lean in this manner can help increase profitability and scale growth for the organization.

Finally, there are a few best practices to keep in mind when transitioning to a patient scheduling software. Following these guidelines can help ensure that the office staff has a good plan for implementation.

Things like first impressions can make a significant difference in a competitive market. Patient scheduling software provides this competitive edge and a better experience for clients through flexibility and efficiency.

ChiroSpring is an all-in-one practice management and EHR system built specifically for chiropractors to help them regain face-time with patients, spend less time on back-office tasks, maintain a limited staff, and save operational costs.

To see how ChiroSpring can help you simplify how you manage your practice, reach out to one of our specialists today!