Caseload Mix 101: Balance High‑Need and Low‑Need Patients Without Burnout
Updated 2025-10-14
Use a simple complexity score to design a balanced daily mix that keeps productivity steady and energy sane.
Score the Complexity
- Low (1): simple follow‑ups, education heavy.
- Medium (2): mixed needs, moderate assistance.
- High (3): intensive care, multi‑modal.
Make the Daily Mix
- Alternate 3→1→2 patterns to avoid stacking hard cases.
- Insert buffers after two 3s in a row.
Review Weekly
- Adjust based on fatigue, outcomes, and no‑show patterns.
Try the Calculator: Use our Therapist Productivity Calculator to turn your billable minutes and productivity target into a precise end time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I score fairly?
Use a short rubric with examples per setting so everyone applies it consistently.
What if all cases are high‑need?
Lower your daily count, insert more buffers, and escalate staffing needs to leadership.