Booking a Doctor's Appointment

Patient

  • I need to make an appointment.
  • I need to see the doctor.
  • When is the doctor free?
  • I need to renew my prescription.
  • Do you think the doctor could squeeze us in today?
  • I need to make an appointment for my husband.
  • My child needs to come in for a check-up.
  • The doctor wants to see me again in two week's time.

Receptionist

  • What is your chart number?
  • What is the appointment regarding?
  • Which day/what time is good for you?
  • Is January the 3rd okay with you?
  • How does four o'clock sound?
  • We'll see you then.
  • I'm sorry the doctor is not taking new patients.
  • We'll call you if there are any cancellations.
  • We're running an hour behind schedule.
  • Dr Jones is away. You'll be seeing Dr Lindsay.

Sample Conversation

Receptionist:Doctor's office. Jane speaking. How can I help you?
Caller:I need to make an appointment with Dr. Harris.
Receptionist:Do you know your chart number?
Caller:No, sorry. It's at home and I'm at work right now.
Receptionist:No problem. What's your name, please?
Caller:George Mason.
Receptionist:Okay Mr Mason. Hold one moment while I grab your chart, please.
Caller:Sure.
Receptionist:Thanks for waiting. Now, what do you need to see the doctor about?
Caller:Well, I've been fighting a cold for more than a week, and I think I might have a chest infection or something. My cough is getting worse each day.
Receptionist:Hmm. Doctor Harris is off tomorrow. Do you think it can wait until Wednesday?
Caller:Oh, I was really hoping to get in today or tomorrow in case I need some antibiotics. Maybe I'll have to go to the walk-in-clinic instead.
Receptionist:Actually, we had a cancellation for 2:00pm today if you can get away from the office.
Caller:Gee, it's almost 1:00pm already. I think I can make it if I leave right now.
Receptionist:We're running a bit behind schedule, so you can probably count on seeing the doctor around 2:30.
Caller:That's great. Thanks for fitting me in.
Receptionist:No problem, Mr. Mason. We'll see you in an hour or so.