Dr. Patterson's schedule excerpt indicates which type of appointments are the longest?

• A. Follow-Up
• B. Emergency
• C. New Patient
• D. Consultation

Answer: (C)

New patient visits are the longest because they require a full intake: gathering a complete medical history, reviewing past records, listing current medications and allergies, and understanding all ongoing issues. The clinician also performs a thorough initial exam, may order tests, and sets up a comprehensive plan and follow-up schedule. In contrast, follow-ups focus on progress and adjustments and are typically shorter, emergencies depend on urgency and can vary in length, and consultations are usually centered on planning or discussing options and may not require the broad intake a new patient needs.