Patients love convenience. Whether it’s high-tech treatments, friendly staff, or easy-to-use online services, making the experience smooth at every touchpoint is key to attracting and retaining patients. One often-overlooked but game-changing element of patient care? Scheduling.
Gone are the days when booking an appointment required endless phone tag or back-and-forth emails. Now, thanks to online scheduling, patients can book their own appointments quickly and easily. Here’s why your orthopedic practice should embrace this must-have feature.
What is Online Scheduling for Orthopedic Practices?
Online scheduling lets your patients book appointments directly from their phones or computers. Linked from your website, this tool allows patients to see available dates and times, select the slot that works for them, and confirm—all without needing to pick up the phone.
No emails to respond to, no staff stuck juggling the calendar, and no accidental double-bookings. Patients can book 24/7, even during evenings or weekends. It’s as simple as ordering a pair of running shoes online—except they’re booking time with an orthopedic expert who can help them get back to running.
Why Your Orthopedic Practice Needs Online Scheduling
1. Attract More of the Right Patients
Want to make it easier for patients to choose you? Start with online scheduling. By removing barriers like waiting on hold or needing to call during office hours, you make it simple for new patients to book the care they need—on their own time.
The numbers don’t lie:
- 67% of people say online booking is their preferred method for scheduling appointments.
- 94% are more likely to book if online scheduling is available.
- 59% get frustrated when they can’t book outside office hours.
Translation: If you’re not offering online scheduling, you might be missing out on a lot of potential patients.
2. Streamline Your Workflow
Online scheduling isn’t just a win for patients—it’s a time-saver for your team, too. By integrating scheduling software into your practice management system, you can:
- Reduce scheduling errors and eliminate double-bookings.
- Automate appointment reminders and follow-ups.
- Free up your staff to focus on other important tasks.
With fewer phone calls to manage and a reduced chance of scheduling mishaps, your team can work smarter, not harder.
3. Stay Ahead of the Curve
In a world where convenience rules, patients increasingly expect their healthcare providers to offer modern solutions. If they’re comparing orthopedic clinics and one offers online scheduling while the other doesn’t, which do you think they’ll choose?
Beyond attracting new patients, online scheduling helps you retain current ones. Patients who are used to booking their dental cleanings or eye exams online will appreciate having the same ease when booking their physical therapy or joint replacement consultations.
How to Add Online Scheduling to Your Orthopedic Website
1. Choose the Right Platform
When selecting an online scheduling platform, look for one that integrates seamlessly with your existing practice management software. Bonus points if it also automates reminders and offers features like patient intake forms.
2. Make It Easy to Find
Once your online booking system is set up, let patients know about it! Add clear calls-to-action (CTAs) like “Schedule Online” or “Book Your Appointment” throughout your website.
- Navigation Bar: Place a “Book Online” button in your website’s main menu so it’s always visible.
- Homepage: Include a prominent scheduling button where new visitors can see it immediately.
3. Spread the Word
Don’t stop at your website. Announce your new scheduling feature via:
- Email newsletters
- Text reminders
- Social media posts
Letting patients know they can now book online will increase adoption and improve their overall experience.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Online scheduling is more than just a modern convenience—it’s a tool to grow your orthopedic practice, save time, and delight your patients. By making it easier for patients to book appointments and streamlining your team’s workflow, you’ll position your practice as a leader in patient-focused care.
Need help adding online scheduling to your website? Reach out, and we’ll help you integrate this game-changing feature seamlessly.