Medical Assistant Certification (MAC) AMCA Practice Exam

What is the scheduling structure called where no appointment is needed and patients are seen in order of arrival?

1. Fixed Schedule

2. Open Hours

3. Block Scheduling

4. Double-booking

The correct answer is: Open Hours

The scheduling structure where no appointment is needed and patients are seen in the order of their arrival is referred to as open hours. This system allows for flexibility as patients can come in at their convenience without having a specific appointment time, making it easier for those who may have unpredictable schedules. In this model, healthcare providers welcome walk-in patients, which can help to accommodate higher patient volumes and provide immediate care when necessary. Open hours can be particularly beneficial in settings such as urgent care clinics or primary care practices where immediate service is often required. This method contrasts with structured appointment systems, where patient flow is more controlled and scheduled in advance.