

Top 5 scheduling tools for private practices in 2025
Discover the best scheduling software for private practices. Explore tools like Healthie, Calendly, and Acuity with expert tips to streamline operations.
The responsibilities of running a private practice can often feel overwhelming. Between delivering quality care, managing client communication, overseeing billing, and organizing your calendar, there’s little room left to breathe. Thankfully, modern scheduling tools can help lighten your load.
Scheduling software has evolved tremendously, with 2025 introducing even more advanced tools designed to streamline processes for private practice providers. These tools not only simplify appointment booking but also integrate essential features like payment collection, automation, reminders, and secure client communication, making practice management far more efficient.
To help you find the right solution for your practice, we’ve reviewed the top 5 scheduling tools for private practices in 2025. Whether you’re a solo provider or managing a small team, these platforms will save you time, improve client satisfaction, and help your business grow.
1. Healthie
Best for: All-in-one platform for health and wellness practices
Why it stands out: Healthie is more than just a scheduling tool. It’s a fully integrated practice management system that combines scheduling, billing, telehealth, and secure messaging. Designed specifically for health and wellness providers, Healthie makes it easy to manage every aspect of your operations in one HIPAA-compliant platform.
Key Features:
- HIPAA-compliant online booking
- Client-facing calendar sync and automated reminders
- Telehealth sessions linked directly to appointments
- Group scheduling for classes or group programs
- Advanced customization for intake forms and appointment types
Pro Tip: Use Healthie’s smart availability settings to organize your time better. For instance, you can reserve admin hours, ensuring uninterrupted time for operational tasks, while clients self-book only within designated care hours.
2. Calendly (Health Pro Plan)
Best for: External appointment coordination and simplicity
Why it stands out: Known for its user-friendly design, Calendly’s Health Pro Plan is now HIPAA-compliant, making it ideal for healthcare providers. This version adds the robust privacy features needed for client calls while maintaining Calendly’s signature ease of use.
Key Features:
- Embeddable booking links for websites, emails, or social profiles
- Automated reminders and rescheduling support
- Custom buffer times to prevent back-to-back appointments
- Automated workflows tailored to booking type
Pro Tip: Create separate booking links for different services, such as "Initial Consultation" and "Follow-Up Appointment." This ensures clients land on the right option, giving them clear expectations while making scheduling easier.
3. Thryv
Best for: Solo private practice providers needing business automation
Why it stands out: While not exclusively designed for healthcare, Thryv’s wide-ranging features make it great for private practices. It’s a business automation solution with scheduling, client communication, invoice tracking, and even marketing tools, all available in one unified platform.
Key Features:
- Mobile-friendly, self-service scheduling for clients
- A secure client communication portal for real-time updates
- Built-in CRM for tracking client interaction and tasks
- E-payment functionality for seamless fee collection
Pro Tip: Leverage Thryv’s automated CRM feature to send follow-up emails to clients. For example, send a “Thank You” email post-session or re-engagement emails to clients who haven’t booked in a while.
4. Setmore
Best for: Small teams and simplified front-desk management
Why it stands out: Setmore prioritizes ease of use for team management and client-facing simplicity. Whether you’re managing a small wellness team or juggling solo sessions, Setmore is an intuitive and affordable scheduling solution. Its interface is beginner-friendly, and its free plan includes plenty of essentials to get started.
Key Features:
- Customizable booking pages for individual team members
- Email and text reminders to reduce no-shows
- Recurring appointment setup for regular clients
- Integrations with video conferencing software like Zoom
Pro Tip: Add a branded Setmore booking link to your Google Business Profile and social media platforms. This makes first-time bookings effortless and helps convert potential clients searching for your services.
5. Acuity Scheduling (by Squarespace)
Best for: Cash-pay and wellness services like coaching or therapy
Why it stands out: Acuity is a flexible, user-centric tool that excels at managing private-pay practices and services that revolve around packages and memberships. Its customizable features give practitioners greater control over branding and payment processes.
Key Features:
- Fully branded booking pages for a cohesive client experience
- Payment collection at the time of booking
- Support for packages, memberships, and subscriptions
- Accurate time-zone detection for virtual clients
Pro Tip: Use Acuity’s package feature to build client loyalty. For instance, offer discounted 5-session packages and allow clients to self-schedule their appointments once they’ve purchased the package.
Choosing the Right Tool for Your Practice
Selecting the perfect scheduling software isn’t just about features or price; it’s about finding the right fit for your unique needs as a practice. Consider these key aspects when making your decision:
- Practice Model: Are you offering insurance-based or private-pay services?
- Client Preferences: Do your clients value virtual options as much as in-person visits?
- Team Size: Are you a solo practitioner or managing a growing team?
- Integration Needs: Does the platform sync with your EHR, billing tools, or telehealth software?
A good scheduling tool helps you save time and provides a seamless experience for your clients. The tools listed above are industry leaders, offering innovative features that cater to evolving digital expectations in healthcare and wellness practices.
Actionable Tips for Optimizing Your Scheduling Tool
Regardless of the platform, these best practices can help maximize efficiency and client satisfaction:
- Automate Reminders: Reduce no-shows by enabling automated SMS or email reminders.
- Control Self-Booking: Allow limited self-booking to maintain balance while offering clients flexibility.
- Monitor Booking Data: Track attendance rates, peak booking hours, and no-show trends to refine your availability.
- Update Availability Weekly: Keep your schedule current to avoid overbooking.
- Integrate Systems: Sync with your CRM, billing, and EHR tools to create a smooth workflow.
Simplify Your Scheduling Today
The right scheduling software isn’t just a tool; it’s a business partner that helps you work smarter. Whether you’re drawn to Healthie’s all-in-one solution, Calendly’s simplicity, or Acuity’s flexibility, there’s a solution built for your private practice.
If you’re ready to streamline scheduling and enhance your client experience, start by exploring Healthie’s 14-day free trial. This all-in-one platform ensures HIPAA compliance and offers a complete practice management solution.
Start saving time and focusing on what matters most—providing excellent care.
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