COVID-19

How to manage your waitlist during the Coronavirus Pandemic

The news is startling. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is forcing governments to close off borders and shutdown travel. Businesses, schools and offices are closing down. Entire sports leagues are on hold indefinitely. And events, big and small, are being forced to cancel. In this guide, we’d like to give you an important breakdown of information cited from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on what coronavirus is, who is affected by the outbreak, and what you can do now to stay healthy. In addition, we’ll provide you some high-level tips on how you can leverage NextME’s virtual waitlist software to help you and your patrons practice “social distancing” during this outbreak and beyond.

3 tips to manage your waitlist safely during the Coronavirus Pandemic

  • Send SMS Texts – Eliminate crowded waiting rooms and allow your guests to wait freely.  Once your service or pick up order is ready, send your guests a simple text notification.
  • Utilize Virtual Waitlists – Guests can either check-in and join the waitlist from their phones via your mobile website, or by scanning a customized QR code at the front door or window.
  • Stay Connected –  While your guests wait, provide them access to their position in line and educate them about your queue management process using your custom virtual waiting room. 

We’d like to help you during these difficult times. If you have any questions about how to implement NextME’s waitlist solution for curbside pickups, patient screenings, 1:1 online meetings, or to simply keep your waiting area less crowded and safe for your guests, contact us.

What is the Coronavirus? 

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the new coronavirus that emerged in Wuhan, China in December 2019 (John Hopkins Medicine, 2020). 

What are the symptoms of the Coronavirus?

Symptoms of coronavirus can show up anywhere between 2 and 14 days after exposure. According to the CDC, coronavirus symptoms include: 

  • Fever
  • Coughing
  • Shortness of Breath 

More severe cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) have been linked to breathing difficulties, pneumonia, kidney failure, or even death. On the other hand, some people that are infected may not experience any symptoms at all. Older people and those with pre-existing medical conditions (like diabetes and heart disease) may have a higher risk of developing severe complications from coronavirus (COVID-19). 

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, remember to call ahead or research telemedicine solutions before visiting your healthcare provider to share your symptoms and inform them that you may have COVID-19. 

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