Which factor does NOT influence the appointment matrix?

The appointment matrix is primarily designed to optimize scheduling, taking into account various elements that directly impact how appointments are organized. Physician preferences play a significant role, as they determine when and how they wish to see patients based on their practice style and availability. The scheduling system itself is crucial because it dictates the framework within which appointments are set, including time slots and appointment lengths.

Facilities and equipment availability are also important factors. They influence how many appointments can be handled at a given time, as certain medical procedures might require specialized rooms or equipment that are not universally available.

In contrast, patient age does not directly affect the structure of the appointment matrix. While age can influence specific patient needs or the types of services required, it does not function as a determining factor for how appointments are allocated or organized within the matrix. Consequently, it is not a factor that influences appointment scheduling in the same foundational way that the other options do.