How to Get a Doctor's Appointment When You Need One

Through no fault of their own, doctors today are booking appointments as far as six weeks in advance. Whether you wish to be seen sooner or want a specific time for your appointment with the doctor, there are strategies you can use to minimize waiting time for an appointment.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Always have your insurance information on hand when you want to book an appointment. Receptionists at some doctor's offices will not even discuss appointments until they have this information.
2. If you see your doctor on a yearly basis, make a note in your calendar to call six weeks early to book your appointment. You will be able to select the day and time you want.
3. If you don't wish to wait and are told the doctor is booked, politely state that you need to be seen sooner. Be willing to explain the urgency to the person answering the phone. The more well mannered you are, the more likely she will work to get you in.
4. Tell the receptionist that you wish to be called if a cancellation occurs. Ask her to take your number and call you if something opens up.
5. Call the doctor's office back first thing in the morning and ask if there are any cancellations. Cancellations tend to come in at night and are often picked up by the answering service. The receptionist will have this information at the start of her day.
6. Continue calling on a daily basis. Always be polite but firm about your need to be seen. Often when the receptionist realizes that you aren't going to stop calling her until your needs are met, she is likely to find a place for you.
7. If you encounter any rudeness or feel you were not fairly treated, be sure to let the doctor know. If you truly need to be seen, it is the responsibility of the person answering the phone to fit you in or to consult with the doctor about your needs.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't claim an emergency for the sake of convenience. That makes it harder for everyone.
• Try to plan ahead by marking your calendar.
• If you are not sure about your medical needs, you can always make an appointment and then cancel it if it turns out it's not necessary. That opens up a slot for someone who might really need to be seen immediately.