Solv has updated how timeslots appear on your scheduling page to support multiple visit types and provide greater flexibility in booking appointments. While you may have noticed that the booking slots are displayed every 5 minutes (e.g., 9:00, 9:05, 9:10, 9:15, etc.). This does not mean that patients are booking 5-minute appointments. Let's clarify how this system works and why it benefits your clinic's scheduling.
Why Are Slots Displayed Every 5 Minutes?
The 5-minute interval display allows patients to choose a flexible start time for their appointments, making it easier for them to find a convenient time that fits into their schedule. However, the actual length of each appointment is determined by the specific visit type settings that you configure in your clinic's system.
How the System Manages Appointment Durations:
Flexible Start Times:
Patients can select any available 5-minute increment to start their appointment. This provides greater flexibility and convenience for them to pick a time that works best with their schedule.
Automatic Duration Blocking:
When a patient books an appointment, the system automatically blocks off the appropriate duration based on the visit type's settings.
For example, if a patient selects a 20-minute visit type and books an appointment at 9:05, the system will automatically block all availability from 9:05 to 9:25. This means that even though the schedule shows slots at 9:10 or 9:15, they will not be bookable for another patient because the time is already allocated.
Example Scenario:
Booking a 20-Minute Visit:
A patient books a 20-minute appointment starting at 9:05.
The system immediately blocks off the period from 9:05 to 9:25.
Even though the scheduling page displays slots at 9:10, 9:15, and 9:20, those times will be marked as unavailable because they fall within the 20-minute duration of the booked appointment.
The next available slot for booking would be at 9:25, assuming no other bookings overlap.
Key Benefits of This System:
Prevents Overbooking: By dynamically adjusting availability based on the actual visit duration, the system ensures that your clinic will not be overbooked and that each patient receives the full attention required during their visit.
Maximizes Flexibility for Patients: Patients can select start times in 5-minute increments, giving them more options and flexibility in scheduling their visits.
Efficient Use of Clinic Resources: This approach allows for a more efficient use of clinic time and resources, ensuring a steady flow of patients without overwhelming staff.
Conclusion:
The 5-minute interval display on your scheduling page is designed to offer greater flexibility and convenience while maintaining accurate and effective scheduling practices. By automatically adjusting appointment availability based on the specific visit type's duration, Solv helps ensure smooth clinic operations and an optimal patient experience.
If you have any further questions or need assistance adjusting your settings, please refer to our support resources or contact our support team.