What is the collective noun for patients?

There isn't a widely accepted and commonly used collective noun for patients.

Here are some options, depending on the context:

Formal:

* A ward of patients (if referring to a hospital setting)

* A group of patients (general)

Informal:

* A waiting room full of patients (implies they're waiting for medical attention)

* A cohort of patients (if they are part of a study)

* A clientele of patients (if referring to a private practice)

Ultimately, the best way to describe a group of patients depends on the specific situation.