What defines fixed appointment scheduling?

Fixed appointment scheduling is defined by the practice of scheduling a single patient for a specific appointment time. This approach allows for a more organized and predictable flow within a medical office, enabling staff to allocate appropriate resources and time for each patient's visit. The structured nature of fixed scheduling minimizes overlapping appointments and reduces wait times for patients, contributing to a more efficient workflow.

Patients benefit from having designated time slots, which can lead to better preparation for both the patient and the provider. This method contrasts with other scheduling types, such as open or wave scheduling, where multiple patients may arrive at similar times or have appointments set without specific time constraints, potentially causing bottlenecks or longer waiting periods.