What is defined as a type of scheduling where two or more patients are scheduled in the same time slot?

The correct answer is double-booking, which refers to the practice of scheduling two or more patients for the same appointment time. This method can work well in settings where some patients may arrive late or require less time than anticipated, allowing for flexibility in managing patient flow. Double-booking can help optimize the use of time slots and reduce downtime for healthcare providers. However, it requires careful management to ensure that all patients receive adequate attention during their visit.

Wave scheduling involves scheduling multiple patients in a fixed time frame, but they arrive at staggered intervals rather than being booked in the same exact slot. New patient scheduling typically refers to the process of specifically setting appointments for patients who are visiting the practice for the first time. Clustering is a strategy where appointments for similar types of procedures or visits are grouped together, which is different from double-booking as it does not involve overlapping appointments. Understanding these distinctions can help in effective appointment management and patient care.