MGMA Stat poll indicates widespread use of patient wait lists for next-available appointments

The Medical Group Management Association’s most recent MGMA Stat poll asked healthcare leaders if their organization utilizes a patient wait list to fill next-available appointments as they became available. Overall, 61% of leaders responded that their organization utilized a patient wait list for next-available appointments, 7% were considering it, 29% did not and the remaining 3% were unsure. 

Of the majority that indicated using wait lists, many describing how this function is incorporated in their EHR while others simply rely on a paper wait list. Of the 29% that did not use a wait list, many respondents cited they offer same-day appointments or are at least able to see patients within 2-3 days. 

The poll was conducted on June 19, 2018, with 1,347 total responses. MGMA Principal Consultant Pamela Ballou-Nelson, RN, MSPH, CMPE, PHD, provides additional insight in her article, “How long are your patients waiting for an appointment?”

MGMA Stat is a national poll that addresses practice management topics, the impact of new legislation and related topics. Participation is free and available to all healthcare leaders. Interested to learn more about results of other polls? Participate in MGMA Stat.