When is the best time to see my doctor?

March 4th, 2012

At the moment, the U.S. is facing a large shortage of physicians to accomodate the needs of its growing population.  Most doctors’ offices are scheduling patients in 10 or 15 minute intervals.  However, this does not account for patients whose problems are more complex and may require more time than allotted.  This commonly causes the doctor to run over into his/her next appointment.  It is inevitable that waiting time is increasing and patients are getting more frustrated.

I often advise my patients to schedule their appointment for the first slot in the day.  There will be no patients before and they will be seen with minimal waiting.  In addition, if the doctor needs fasting bloodwork, that can be accomplished on that visit.  Another ideal time would be after the physician’s lunch break.  In my years of practicing medicine, I am always surprised at how few people take advantage of these times.

Cancellations are very likely in any physician’s office.  Check with the receptionist to see the likelihood of taking a cancelled appointment, but of course be polite about it.  Always bring something to read or do in the case you have to wait.  We all have mail to sort or emails to write to make the time go by.