Best Patient Scheduling Software: Top Picks for Efficiency
When it comes to managing a medical practice, the best patient scheduling software can make a world of difference. It helps doctors, nurses, and administrative staff keep track of appointments, reduce no-shows, and ensure that patients receive timely care. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top options for patient scheduling software, including TidyCal, to help you find the best solution for your practice.
Why You Need the Best Patient Scheduling Software
Imagine trying to keep track of dozens, or even hundreds, of patient appointments every week using just a paper calendar. It would be chaotic! The best patient scheduling software helps organize appointments, send reminders, and manage the entire scheduling process efficiently. Here are some key benefits:
- Reduces No-Shows: Automated reminders ensure patients remember their appointments.
- Improves Office Efficiency: Staff spend less time on the phone scheduling and rescheduling appointments.
- Better Patient Experience: Patients can easily book, reschedule, or cancel appointments online.
- Real-Time Availability: Doctors and staff can see their schedules in real-time, reducing double-booking.

TidyCal: The Simple and Effective Solution
One of the best options out there is TidyCal. This scheduling app is designed to make managing your calendar and booking appointments easy. Let’s dive into some of its key features:
Booking Types
With TidyCal, you can set up different booking types based on your needs. Whether you need paid, free, recurring, or group booking options, TidyCal has you covered. This flexibility means you can accommodate any way people want to meet with you.
Date Polls
One of the coolest features is the date polls. Instead of going back and forth trying to find a time that works for everyone, you can send out a date poll for voting. This feature eliminates the endless emails and makes scheduling a breeze.
Integrations
TidyCal offers tons of integrations for your favorite tools and existing workflows. It integrates with Google Calendar, Apple iCal, and Microsoft 365 Calendar to read your calendars for real-time availability and automatically sync new bookings. Plus, the Zoom and Google Meet integrations generate meeting URLs and add them to the calendar invite on autopilot.
Payment Integrations
Getting paid is easy with TidyCal. It integrates with Stripe and PayPal, so you can accept payments directly through the app. This is especially useful for practices that charge for certain types of appointments.
Custom Availability
TidyCal allows you to set your default weekly availability or choose specific dates as available or unavailable. This ensures your leads and clients are booking you at the right times. You can specify time blocks of availability and add gap times to take breaks between meetings.
Multiple Calendar Sync
TidyCal can scan up to 10 of your integrated calendars, so your availability is always accurate. You won’t have to worry about double-booking or missing an appointment.
Custom Booking Pages
Share your custom booking pages via links or embeddable widgets right on your website. You can embed your entire booking page, a single booking type, or multiple booking types on your website with JavaScript code. This makes it super easy for patients to book appointments.
Easy Transition From Calendly
If you’re currently using Calendly and want to switch to TidyCal, no problem! You can import some of your key settings and data directly from Calendly, making the transition smooth and hassle-free.
Other Top Patient Scheduling Software Options
While TidyCal is a fantastic choice, there are other options worth considering. Here are a few more of the best patient scheduling software solutions:
1. Simplepractice
SimplePractice is a comprehensive practice management software that includes patient scheduling features. It’s designed for health and wellness professionals and offers features like appointment reminders, online booking, and a client portal.
2. Acuity Scheduling
Acuity Scheduling is a powerful scheduling tool that’s popular among healthcare providers. It offers features like automated reminders, online booking, and customizable intake forms. Acuity also integrates with various other tools, making it a versatile option.
3. Practice Fusion
Practice Fusion is an electronic health record (EHR) system that includes patient scheduling features. It’s designed for small to medium-sized practices and offers features like appointment reminders, online booking, and patient intake forms.
4. Drchrono
DrChrono is an EHR and practice management solution that includes patient scheduling features. It’s designed for medical practices of all sizes and offers features like appointment reminders, online booking, and patient intake forms.
5. Kareo
Kareo is a cloud-based medical practice management software that includes patient scheduling features. It’s designed for small practices and offers features like appointment reminders, online booking, and a patient portal.

How to Choose the Best Patient Scheduling Software
With so many options available, how do you choose the best patient scheduling software for your practice? Here are some key factors to consider:
- Ease of Use: The software should be easy to use for both staff and patients.
- Features: Look for features like automated reminders, online booking, and calendar integrations.
- Cost: Consider the cost of the software and whether it fits within your budget.
- Integrations: Check if the software integrates with other tools and systems you use.
- Customer Support: Good customer support is essential for resolving any issues that may arise.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Patient Scheduling Software?
The best patient scheduling software integrates seamlessly with your practice, offers robust features, and enhances patient experience.
How Does Patient Scheduling Software Improve Efficiency?
Patient scheduling software streamlines appointment bookings, reduces no-shows, and optimizes staff time, thereby improving overall efficiency.
Can Scheduling Software Integrate With Existing Systems?
Yes, most scheduling software integrates with existing systems like EMRs, calendars, and billing systems to ensure seamless operations.
Is Patient Scheduling Software Easy To Use?
User-friendly patient scheduling software should have an intuitive interface, making it easy for staff and patients to navigate.
What Features Should I Look For In Scheduling Software?
Look for features like automated reminders, calendar integration, and reporting tools to enhance practice management and patient care.
How Does Patient Scheduling Software Reduce No-shows?
Automated reminders and easy rescheduling options help reduce no-shows, ensuring better appointment adherence and patient satisfaction.
Can I Customize Appointment Types With Scheduling Software?
Yes, quality scheduling software allows you to customize appointment types, durations, and availability to suit your practice needs.
How Secure Is Patient Scheduling Software?
Top patient scheduling software complies with HIPAA regulations, ensuring patient data is secure and confidentiality is maintained.
Conclusion
Choosing the best patient scheduling software can greatly improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your medical practice. TidyCal is a top choice with its flexible booking options, integrations, and ease of use. However, other options like SimplePractice, Acuity Scheduling, Practice Fusion, DrChrono, and Kareo are also worth considering. By evaluating your specific needs and comparing the features of each option, you can find the perfect solution for your practice.
For more information and to get started with TidyCal, visit TidyCal.