Title: Patient Education and Missed Appointments: An Evidence-Based Strategies Review for Reducing No-Shows and Late Cancellations in Imaging Departments
Authors: Kevin S. Collins
Volume: 9
Issue: 9
Pages: 17-23
Publication Date: 2025/09/28
Abstract:
Missed and late-canceled imaging appointments undermine operational efficiency. They also may place a strain on organizational resources, delay patient diagnoses, and can cause financial losses. A significant portion, 22-24%, of scheduled imaging appointments are now canceled by patients, while true no-shows account for only about 2% (Aijaz et al., 2024). To address the issue, radiology managers should develop strategic interventions. Evidence shows that appointment loss can be significantly reduced through patient education that addresses health literacy (Shahid et al., 2022), anxiety reduction (T?rnqvist et al., 2006; Shojaie et al., 2024), logistical understanding (Syed et al., 2013; Jacobs et al., 2004), and when its communication is augmented through technology (McLean et al., 2016; Robotham et al., 2016). Therefore, radiology managers can adjust staff workflows to incorporate patient education processes, train staff (McCarthy et al., 2012), and implement blended, equity-focused outreach strategies (WHO, 2022) to successfully enhance patient adherence, improve quality patient outcomes, and increase departmental efficiency.