Find your number
Think back over the last few months. On which days did you treat well and go home with energy? How many patients was that? That is your sustainable number, usually lower than your maximum.
Shape your diary around it
- Fix session lengths that suit your work: longer for new assessments, shorter for follow-ups.
- Limit new patients per day; they need more energy.
- Keep one buffer slot each day for urgent patients or delays.
In your diary, set your timings and breaks so online booking only offers times you want to work.
When you are too busy
- Use a waiting list instead of squeezing people in.
- Space out follow-ups for stable patients.
- Move suitable follow-ups to video consultations.
- Think about getting help. See when to hire.
When it is slow
- Follow up patients who stopped coming. See bringing back patients.
- Meet referring doctors and send pending reports.
- Make videos, start a class or plan a workshop.
- Do the learning you never get time for.
Look at the trend, not one day
Weeks vary, especially around festivals and exams. Look at the monthly average. A steady fall needs action; one slow week does not.
Frequently asked questions
How many patients should a solo physio see in a week?
It depends on session length and your energy. Find the number where you treat well and finish on time.
What should I do when I have too many patients?
Use a waiting list, space out stable follow-ups, use video consultations and consider hiring.
How do I fill slow weeks?
Follow up old patients, strengthen doctor relationships and use the time for learning and content.