Plan leave months ahead
Decide your leave for the year early. Two or three longer breaks are better than scattered days, because they let you actually rest.
Close the diary for those dates
Block the dates in your diary the day you decide, so nobody books into them and online booking does not offer them. See appointment scheduling.
Tell patients early
Mention it to patients mid-treatment a few weeks before, and adjust their plans: a home program, an extra visit before you go, or a telehealth check-in if appropriate.
Arrange cover for those who need it
Agree with a trusted local physio to see your urgent patients, and share what is needed with patient consent. Return the favour when they are away.
Leave a clear message
Update your voicemail, email auto-reply and website: when you are away, when you are back, and how to book for your return.
Fill your return week before you go
Offer patients their first appointment after your break before you leave, and keep a waiting list of people who want to see you when you are back. Send recalls in the week before your return. See bringing back patients.
Budget for it
Put aside a little income each week for leave, so the break does not feel like a loss.
Frequently asked questions
How do sole physios take holidays?
By planning leave early, closing the diary, telling patients ahead, arranging cover for urgent needs, and filling the return week before leaving.
Will I lose patients if I go on holiday?
Rarely, if you plan their care around your leave and make it easy to book your return.
Should I arrange a locum?
For longer breaks, a locum or a colleague covering urgent patients helps. For a week or two, good planning is often enough.