16.01.12
Missed opportunities
Missed appointments cost the NHS a great deal of money and time, which could be used to help improve services and provide quality treatment.
Failing to turn up, or to even cancel the appointment, is therefore inconsiderate and wasteful. If a patient is incapable of remembering an appointment then they could arrange to set up a reminder service with the hospital.
A small fine could help to remind people that seeking an appointment is an important commitment and failure to show up has consequences far wider than just the effort of rescheduling their individual appointment.
Genuine reasons for missing appointments should obviously be excused, but for many some form of punishment could prompt higher attendance or cancellation.
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