Léa Surugue asks why patients don’t show up to appointments and how to ensure greater attendance levels.
DNA, or “did not attend”: the note no clinician wants to record against a patient’s name. But, over the last decade, healthcare professionals have reported a growing number of missed appointments.
The proportion of attended appointments in the UK has declined from 79.8% in 2010-11 to 77% in 2020-21 (NHS Digital, 2021). There are public health repercussions – patients not receiving the follow-up they need – and economic ones, as they put financial strain both on hospital services and on private practices (Parsons et al, 2021).
Sign in to continue
Not already a member of the College?
Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.
The College has offered its congratulations to Sir Keir Starmer and the Labour Party on their success in the General Election and on forming the next UK government.
The College of Optometrists is calling on the next Westminster government to establish optometrists as the first port of call for anyone with an eye care issue.