Patients’ reasons for missing scheduled clinic appointments and their solutions at a major urban-based academic medical center

Abstract

Objective: Patients that do not show up for scheduled clinic appointments affect the quality of healthcare provided. This study aimed to recognize the reasons behind missing scheduled appointments and understand possible solutions from the patient's perspective. Method: We included 100 patients that attended the outpatient Medicine clinic in January 2020. Selection criteria were based on missing one or more of the scheduled clinic appointments in the last year. The participants answered a questionnaire to clarify the reasons for missing a scheduled clinic appointment and offer suggestions for a solution. The recruiter, in turn, answered several demographical questions Results: The study showed a statistically significant difference between the no-show rate in females at 60% compared to males at 40% (P = 0.0023). The no show rate was not significantly affected by the day of the week, time of appointment, or the weather. Forgetting about the appointment was the most common cause (36 subjects). Work-related issues were reported in 17 participants, making it the 2 nd most common cause. Not notified about the appointment, Lack of transportation, childcare-related issues, along with other reasons, were less likely reported (Table 2). 11 out of 36 (30%) subjects suggested a reminder text message in their preferred language; meanwhile, 4 others suggested a weekend clinic. Conclusion: The patients should be aware of different appointment reminders options and have the freedom to choose a suitable reminder. Patients should be educated about the importance of calling to cancel the appointment since some of the reasons for no show are unpreventable.

Factors Contributing To Clinic No-Show at a Safety Net Hospital

“…Most of our no-show patients reported forgetting their appointment as the main reason for their failure to keep their clinic appointments. This is consistent with prior studies which showed patient forgetfulness as the most common cause for nonattendance [15][16][17]. Our previous clinic reminder system consisted of an automated reminder call to the number provided by the patient 3 days prior to their scheduled appointment.…”

Reducing Cervical Retrolisthesis With Long-Term Monthly Chiropractic Maintenance Care: A Case Report

“…The continuing rehabilitation by means of strengthening home exercises might also contribute to improved clinical results of physical performance and function. Consequently, patient attendance at scheduled appointments [ 22 ] and adherence to assigned home exercises [ 23 ] might have affected the treatment outcomes in this case. The mechanisms of symptom relief and alignment retrieval warrant scrutiny.…”

Kidney stone prevalence based on self-report and Electronic Health Records: insight into the prevalence of active medical care for kidney stones

“…Demographic differences in the group not receiving active care included female preponderance, younger age, advanced college degree attainment, and active employment. It is possible that these patients had more difficulty scheduling medical appointments due to work-related issues 16 or had barriers to medical care based on social dynamics. Addressing any possible barriers to care in kidney stone patients may increase engagement and requires additional study.…”