Colorectal Surgery Patient Appointment Scheduling Protocol

Initial Appointment Scheduling

Priority Classification

• Urgent Referrals
  • Suspected colorectal cancer
  • Acute complications requiring immediate surgical evaluation
  • Severe inflammatory conditions
• Semi-Urgent
  • Symptomatic hemorrhoids with bleeding
  • Complicated diverticulitis
  • Fistula management
• Routine
  • Screening colonoscopy
  • Minor anorectal conditions
  • Follow-up visits

Time Allocation Guidelines

• New patient consultations: 45 minutes
• Follow-up appointments: 20 minutes
• Post-operative checks: 15 minutes
• Procedure scheduling: 30 minutes

Pre-appointment Requirements

Documentation Needed

1. Complete medical history
2. Recent imaging studies
3. Previous surgical reports
4. Current medication list
5. Insurance verification

Patient Instructions

• Fasting requirements if applicable
• Medication adjustments
• Required documentation
• Arrival time (15 minutes before appointment)

Special Considerations

Block Time Management

• Reserve 2 emergency slots daily
• Schedule complex cases early in the day
• Group similar procedures together
• Allow buffer time between new patients

Procedure Scheduling

• Colonoscopy: 45 minutes
• Minor procedures: 30 minutes
• Complex procedures: Case-specific

Cancellation Policy

• 48-hour notice required
• Late cancellation fee structure
• Rescheduling priority system
• Documentation of cancellations

Resource Allocation

Staff Requirements

• Minimum 1 MA per provider
• Procedure room staff
• Schedule coordinator
• Pre-authorization specialist

Equipment Preparation

• Procedure room setup time
• Equipment sterilization schedule
• Supply inventory checks