I am really interested by the news today that a study has found that up to 30% of DNAs (did not attend) for GP appointments could be reduced, if behaviour change techniques are employed.
The study led by NHS Bedfordshire found that using techniques such as getting patients to write their appointment down themselves and getting them to repeat the appointment verbally to receptionists helped to reduce DNAs. Placing positive messages around GP practices confirming that attending appointments is the ‘social norm’ also helped to reduce missed appointment, the study said.
This is such simple stuff, yet if the research is to be believed, has significant results which can make a massive difference to primary care efficiencies, with little or no investment – now that makes for good ROI! Read more on the study here
behaviourchangereview 