title = "Appointment Scheduling and Management"

content = """
Efficient scheduling balances client preferences, therapist availability, and optimal
treatment sequencing. Thoughtful appointment management maximizes client satisfaction
while maintaining sustainable operations and staff wellbeing.

**Booking Protocols:**

Gather essential information during initial contact: service preferences, time constraints,
first-time versus returning status, and any special accommodations needed. New clients
require extra time for intake; book accordingly. Confirm contact information and explain
cancellation policies clearly.

Online booking systems offer convenience but may lack nuance for complex service
combinations. Maintain phone booking option for clients needing guidance or special
accommodations. Respond to booking inquiries promptly — delayed responses lose potential
business.

**Treatment Sequencing:**

Order multiple services strategically for optimal experience. Begin with wet treatments
(body wraps, baths) before massage to avoid chilling oiled skin. Schedule facials before
massage when both are booked — massage pressure can increase facial redness. Allow
relaxation time between intensive treatments rather than stacking demanding services.

Buffer time prevents rushed transitions. Five to ten minutes between appointments allows
room reset, therapist preparation, and client changing without hurry. Resist temptation
to overbook — rushed services compromise quality and therapist wellbeing.

**Duration Considerations:**

Standard massage sessions range 30-90 minutes. Shorter sessions suit focused work on
specific areas. Full body relaxation requires minimum 60 minutes. Allow additional
time for hot stone or specialized modalities requiring setup.

Facial treatments typically require 60-75 minutes including consultation, analysis,
and home care discussion. Express facials suit time-constrained clients but limit
treatment comprehensiveness.

**Cancellation and Rescheduling:**

Establish clear policies protecting revenue while acknowledging life circumstances.
Twenty-four hour notice allows rebooking time slots. Late cancellations or no-shows
may incur fees commensurate with service value. Communicate policies during booking and
confirmation.

Weather and illness exceptions require flexible interpretation. Severe storms, contagious
illness, or genuine emergencies warrant waiver of penalty fees. Apply policies consistently
avoiding arbitrary enforcement that damages trust.

**Confirmation Systems:**

Automated reminders via text or email reduce no-shows significantly. Send initial
confirmation at booking, reminder 48 hours before, and final notice day-of. Include
parking instructions, arrival time, and preparation guidelines in communications.

Follow up after missed appointments inviting rescheduling without immediate penalty for
first-time occurrences. Chronic no-shows may require prepayment or stricter policies.

**Waitlist Management:**

Maintain waitlists for popular time slots or practitioners. Contact waitlisted clients
immediately when openings occur, working down list until filled. Some clients prefer
specific therapists; honor these requests when possible while maintaining operational
flexibility.

Track appointment patterns identifying peak demand times and capacity constraints. This
data informs staffing decisions and identifies opportunities for expanded availability.
"""  # noqa: E501

version = "0.0.1"
