Altai Krai launches single hotline for medical appointment bookings

Residents of Altai Krai can now book medical appointments through a single phone number. The unified call centre, reached by dialling 122, connects patients with 79 adult polyclinics across the region. Operators handle around 10,000 calls every day, ensuring access to a range of specialists.

The service runs seven days a week, with 199 operators managing appointments for 12 different medical specialists. These include general practitioners, surgeons, ophthalmologists, and emergency care physicians. Patients can also book visits with dentists, otolaryngologists, and preventive care nurses.

If no immediate slots are available, callers are placed on a waitlist. Their assigned clinic then contacts them directly to arrange a visit. Every call is logged, recorded, and entered into the Regional Medical Information System for tracking.

The system covers a population of roughly 2.35 million people. It aims to simplify access to healthcare by centralising appointment booking through one dedicated number.

The call centre provides a streamlined way for residents to schedule medical visits. With daily call volumes reaching 10,000, the service ensures appointments are managed efficiently. Patients without immediate availability remain on a waitlist until their clinic follows up.