A cancellation list keeps production high

However helpful and efficient, computers don't always improve upon time-tested manual aids. That's my conclusion after asking a variety of my colleagues about using a cancellation list to fill in doctors' schedules. Though some computer systems purport to provide good cancellation management, you can do just as well-and often better-with a pad of paper at the front desk.

Whether in a high-volume primary care office or for a surgical practice with just a few office hours per week, it helps keep your schedules full. The list identifies those patients who are scheduled for routine care in the future but would prefer to be seen sooner.

Keep the cancellation list simple. A plain legal pad will suffice. If a patient wants to be seen sooner than his or her appointment date, your front desk people can record it on the list; add the patient's phone number, present appointment (date, time and which physician) and purpose of visit. Including the patient's preferred visit days and times is also helpful.

About the Author

Reed Tinsley CPA

This article is written by Reed Tinsley, a Houston, TX-based CPA with over 30 years of experience advising physicians and medical practices across Texas and the United States. Reed holds certifications as a Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA), Certified Healthcare Business Consultant (CHBC), and Certified Financial Planner (CFP), specializing exclusively in the healthcare sector. He is a published author, nationally recognized speaker, and trusted advisor to physicians on accounting & tax, practice management, and financial planning. Schedule a Free Consultation.