One of the easiest ways to improve your telehealth workflow is by adding buffer time between appointments. Without it, back-to-back sessions can quickly lead to delays, leaving both you and your patients frustrated.
Why Buffer Time Matters
When appointments run longer than expected, even by just a few minutes, the next patient is left waiting. This can cause a ripple effect throughout the day, increasing stress and reducing the quality of care. By scheduling buffer time, you give yourself a cushion to:
- Wrap up patient discussions
- Document important notes
- Prepare for the next session
- Take a quick mental reset
- Grab a snack or beverage
- Get some fresh air
How Much Time Should You Add?
A 5–10 minute buffer between appointments is often enough to prevent delays and ensure smoother transitions. If your appointments tend to require more follow-up, consider extending it to 15 minutes.
Optimize Your Telehealth Appointment Schedule
Use a telehealth solution that prompts you to build buffer time into your schedule, helping you maintain efficiency without sacrificing quality care. Small changes like this can make a big impact on both provider and patient experience.