Gynecologist Melinda R. Birdsall, MD, FACOG received the 2014 On-Time Doctor Award from Vitals.com, a health care search engine which rates physicians in many areas, including how promptly they see patients.

According to Vitals.com, the national average for wait time to see a physician is just over 20 minutes. Physicians who received the Vitals On-Time Doctor award had patients with an average wait time of 11 minutes.

"Although there are sometimes unforeseen circumstances, I feel that it is extremely important to be respectful and mindful of other people's time. This honor truly validates my practice philosophy,” said Dr. Birdsall. “I'm proud to be recognized for this.”

According to a Vitals.com recent survey, 10% patients revealed that they don’t like to wait to see a physician for long periods of time, especially when they are sick, and a long wait is reason enough to find a new doctor.

“Holy Family Hospital at Merrimack Valley and Steward Health Care set high standards for patient care, which includes the quality of the clinical care delivered, as well as how patients are treated,” said hospital President Joseph Roach. “Dr. Birdsall received this award because she understands that her patients’ schedules are just as important as her own, and the way she streamlines her office reflects that philosophy.”

The On-Time Award icon will be displayed prominently in Dr. Birdsall’s Vitals.com profile so prospective patients will know her office is run effectively and efficiently.