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Doctor's appointment

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

A doctor's appointment is a scheduled meeting between a patient and a healthcare provider, typically for the purpose of receiving medical care, advice, or treatment. This term highlights the importance of organized healthcare delivery and patient-provider communication, emphasizing how timely visits can lead to better health outcomes.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Doctor's appointments can vary in length, typically lasting from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the nature of the visit and the patient's needs.
  2. Patients are often advised to prepare for their appointments by making a list of symptoms, medications, and questions they may have for the doctor.
  3. Many healthcare providers utilize electronic health records (EHR) to keep track of patient information and make it easier to manage appointments and follow-ups.
  4. It's common for patients to reschedule or cancel appointments, and many practices have policies in place regarding late cancellations or no-shows.
  5. In recent years, telemedicine has become increasingly popular, allowing patients to have virtual doctor's appointments through video calls or online chats.

Review Questions

  • How does preparing for a doctor's appointment impact the effectiveness of patient care?
    • Preparing for a doctor's appointment by listing symptoms and questions helps patients communicate effectively with their healthcare providers. This preparation can lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. When patients are proactive about their health concerns, it also enhances the overall efficiency of the appointment and ensures that critical issues are addressed.
  • What role does technology play in modern doctor's appointments, particularly regarding electronic health records and telemedicine?
    • Technology plays a significant role in modern doctor's appointments by streamlining processes through electronic health records (EHR), which allow providers to access patient history quickly and efficiently. Telemedicine has also transformed how appointments are conducted, enabling patients to consult with doctors remotely. This convenience improves accessibility for those who may have difficulty attending in-person visits due to distance or mobility issues.
  • Evaluate the implications of missed doctor's appointments on both patient health outcomes and healthcare systems as a whole.
    • Missed doctor's appointments can negatively impact patient health outcomes by delaying necessary care, leading to worsening conditions that could have been managed earlier. For healthcare systems, no-shows can strain resources, as providers may not be able to fill these slots with other patients, resulting in lost revenue and inefficiencies. Understanding the reasons behind missed appointments is crucial for improving healthcare delivery and patient compliance.