I am a provider and I run on time. But, it is a cash practice, which means that I can schedule fewer patients each day and give each patient the time they need without causing a domino effect on my other appointments. The downside is that I know I am not able to give care to all of the people who cannot afford to pay out of pocket. But, I am less stressed and rushed with my patients and provide (what I think is) really good care.

I think that in general doctors are overworked and overbooked because the practices demand it and because the docs are generally good people who will squeeze in a patient who needs to be seen ASAP.

Fwiw, I hate waiting at my doctor's office, but I do understand a little better why the 7 or 10 minute appoint slots just aren't enough for most patients and there is bound to be a backup.

My son was told to arrive 30 minutes early for a specialist appointment. He arrived 28 minutes early. They said he was late and would have to wait for an available opening - which turned out to be two hours later. That was after filling out 90% of the paperwork online. This was at a practice that he had been to a number of times, although he was seeing a different provider. I couldn't believe it. Sometimes I think the front office staff - who I recognize have a hard job - enjoy the power they have over patients.

I never do it. I've never had a provider take me on time (except dentists) so why should I wate my time and be there early?

Anonymous wrote:Am more than willing to wait for a good doctor. I know he is running late because he is giving more time to patients who need it. I have been the beneficiary of such extra time. And IME these good doctors are the first to apologize for being late.

Yup. Agree 100%

I just ignore that. If its a new doctor and they don't have their forms on-line, I will show up early. Otherwise, I will be on time.