Missed Appointments (DNA) – How does it affects the practice?

Every missed appointment at the surgery means another patient who needed care was unable to be seen.

GP, nurse and healthcare assistant appointments are limited, and when a patient does not attend their appointment, that time cannot always be offered to someone else at short notice. This can lead to longer waiting times for other patients who are trying to access care.

Appointment Reminders

To help reduce missed appointments, we use Accurx, which sends automatic appointment reminders:

• One week before your appointment

• The day before your appointment

These reminders are sent by text message where we have a mobile number recorded for you.

If You Cannot Attend

If you are unable to attend your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so that the appointment can be offered to another patient who may need it. Even cancelling on the day can allow us to help another patient.

Appointments can be cancelled by:

• Using the appointment checker on our telephone system

• Speaking with one of our receptionists
• On the NHS APP
• Using the link in your appointment reminder

• Filling out a triage form

Why This Matters

Missed appointments place additional pressure on the practice and NHS services. By letting us know when you cannot attend, you help us make the best use of available appointments and ensure patients who need care can be seen sooner.