Scheduling blocks are the foundation of a well-run practice. They ensure you dedicate focused time to specific tasks, to maximize your productivity (and minimize your stress). But creating these blocks is just half the battle. You need to honor your scheduling blocks—or risk watching your schedule crumble!
Think of scheduling blocks as appointments—not just for patients, but for yourself and your team. They represent commitments you’ve made to keep your practice flowing smoothly. It’s important to honor the blocks.
For example, when a patient needs to reschedule, resist the urge to play phone tag. Instead, offer them specific appointment slots that align their procedure with your pre-determined schedule blocks. This empowers them to choose a time that works for them, while preserving the integrity of your schedule. Everyone wins—especially those who might’ve been impacted by a rescheduling ripple effect.
A well-defined schedule is a critical tool in running a successful practice. No one wants to look at their schedule a see a precarious tower that’s at-risk of toppling over. Remember that you can be flexible, while staying focused. Instead of deconstructing your schedule piece by piece, build it strong, one block at a time.