Common reasons for non-attendance at a Melbourne-based paediatric hospital outpatient clinic were identified in interviews with 50 parents of children aged 0–18 years. Administrative factors, such as not receiving an appointment letter (26%) or text reminder (32%) and difficulties in re-scheduling appointments (22%), were commonly cited. Suggestions to reduce non-attendance included flexible clinic times, reduced waiting periods and cheaper parking. In addition to receiving text reminders of upcoming appointments, parents wanted to use text services to reschedule appointments and thereby remove the need to phone the hospital.
As many of you know, I become easily annoyed with the discourse around ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNA) as I find it very ‘victim-blaming’. Audits in adult services in Aotearoa have revealed similar findings to those described in this paper. Other issues included double booking, lack of transport and car parking. As the authors suggest, these are often administrative. Anecdotal evidence suggests that virtual (mostly telephone) follow-ups during the recent lockdown have been well liked by both patient and clinician, at least for some specialties.
Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood
Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.
Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.
Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.
