Chapter 6- Managing Appointments Flashcards
Matrix
Crossing out times that providers are unavailable.
One of the most important duties assigned to a medical assistant
Scheduling and managing the flow of patient care
How much time should be blocked off in the mornings/afternoons to accommodate unforeseen circumstances?
15-30 minutes
Methods of scheduling patients
Clustering Wave Fixed Streaming Double booking
Clustering and advantages
Grouping patients with similar problems or needs
Advantage- maximum use of special equipment, ease in schedule control, provide info to multiple patients at the same time, efficient use of employees time
Wave scheduling
Several patients are scheduled for the first 30 minutes of each hour; works well in large facilities
Fixed scheduling
Divided each hour onto increments of 15, 30, 45, or 60 min; most commonly used method
Streaming
Helps minimize gaps in time and backups; appointments given based on the needs of the patient
Double booking
2 patients are scheduled at the same time
What should be done when a patient is a no show?
Document thoroughly in the chart and contact patient to reschedule
How do you obtain a referral approval number if required?
From the insurance company
Acute
Medical problem with abrupt onset
Chronic
Longstanding medical problem
Constellation of symptoms
Group of clinical signs indicating a particular disease
consultation
Request for assistance from one physician to another
