Someone schedules a medical appointment but realizes that they can’t make it because life happens, and almost everyone can relate. However, when it does, people often forget to cancel or reschedule leading to ‘no shows.’
Air Force 1st Lt. Jeffrey Smith, group practice manager for the 579th Medical Group, explained that missed appointments have been on the rise on Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, and it negatively impacts patients’ access to clinical services.
“People have no idea how much this affects our ability to deliver necessary patient care on the base,” he said.
He stressed the importance of patients canceling their appointments at least 2 hours prior to their scheduled visit so that they can be offered to other patients.
“This is especially important during the cold and flu season as people usually schedule more appointments during this time,” Smith continued.
He said that when a patient does not cancel, not only are they impeding another’s ability to be seen, but also the clinic’s operations in a given day.
“We prepare every day based on our scheduled patients,” Smith said. “This means that for every patient on the schedule, we have pulled and reviewed records, set up rooms and ensured the right equipment was available, and that takes time.”
“Time is important to operating a clinic that is responsive to patient needs,” he added.
Smith emphasized that communication is key to avoiding a ‘no show’ status.
According to clinic policy, patients who arrive more than 10 minutes after their scheduled appointment time are considered ‘late arrivals.’
“If you’re late, call the appointment line to notify the clinic staff,” he said. “You may not be required to cancel or reschedule your appointment that day.”
For appointment services, call 1-888-999-1212.
