Uncategorized — 2 min read

When patients call after hours, what happens next?

Patients can’t always wait for office hours—and neither can their concerns. 40% of appointments are booked after hours—and 1 in 3 patients still prefer to call in those instances. In urgent moments, they may not reach you simply because the phone isn’t answered. People turn to the phone for a reason—they want to speak to someone who can help.

When someone reaches out—especially in a moment of worry—you want them to hear more than a voicemail. A calm, compassionate voice. Real person healthcare scheduling that listens, understands, and helps.

Even outside your regular hours, it’s possible to be there for your community—without stretching your team thin.

Missed calls mean missed care

Healthcare doesn’t follow a 9-to-5. Whether you’re running a busy clinic or a solo practice, care often means being available around the clock. But real people are reaching out—calling when they need reassurance, guidance, or simply a supportive voice on the other end of the line.

AI is there to help with workflows or automation, but not to replace people or real connection. Especially when someone’s health is on the line. Empathy matters—a calm, composed person speaking back to them can mean the world. No bot can compare.

In moments that really matter, people connecting with people is what becomes memorable.

Patients remember who picks up

For annual check-ups or routine visits, online booking can be a real game changer—and most patients are happy to book online in those instances. But when it comes to calling a practice, there’s comfort in hearing a real voice answer. Human touch builds trust and makes the caller feel heard and cared for from the beginning.

It eases concerns and starts building connections right away.

Even with digital tools in place, 84% of healthcare practices say patients still call to book appointments. And 73% pick up the phone to cancel or reschedule. These conversations often carry nuance—questions, emotions, and context that are best understood by a person who listens.

With Live Receptionist, every call is answered professionally and with care, 24/7. Whether it’s a new booking, a quick reschedule, or a patient needing reassurance, they’re greeted with care and clarity. You can provide a custom script, so each response reflects your tone, values, and level of professionalism.

No missed calls. No lost appointments. No patients left wondering.

Plus, with fluent English and Spanish speakers on your team, every caller gets the help they need—no barriers, no stress.

A simple solution builds loyalty

Half of patients say they encounter hurdles when trying to schedule care—whether it’s long hold times, clunky booking systems, or incorrect opening hours. These points of friction impact trust and can prevent customers from following through with booking appointments.

By combining your Setmore scheduling with a 24/7 medical receptionist, you offer a better experience—patients can book by phone or online, reschedule with ease, and receive the information they need, when they need it. Every appointment is handled under HIPAA guidelines, giving you and your patients peace of mind.

Whether someone’s calling in, booking from your website, or following up after a visit, everything runs through one connected platform. Your team stays organized, and your patients feel cared for—before they even walk through the door.

When people know you’re there to answer, they’re more likely to come back. And with returning patients up to 70% more likely to rebook, it’s a simple way to build loyalty from the first call.

It’s an easy cycle to start; all you have to do is be there when they need it.

And with the right tools, it’s second nature.