OVER 2,000 appointments have been missed so far at the White Horse Health Centre this year.
From January to May this year 285 appointments with a GP were missed, amounting to 93 hours of wasted time. Mark Dickson, practice manager for the White Horse Health Centre in Westbury is encouraging patients to cancel their appointment if they know they can’t attend.
Mark said, “When we are as busy as we are currently, it can be really frustrating when there are no-shows for appointments – not only does it waste our time, it takes away the opportunity for someone in need to be seen, and it costs the NHS a considerable amount each time.
“With our centre running the Covid vaccine as well as offering our normal primary health services, it adds an unnecessary burden on an already struggling service.
From January to May this year, 201 same day emergency appointments were missed, totalling up to 63 hours of wasted time.
Mark added, “Access to timely GP appointments is important and we know this is a priority for our patients and community. We would urge all our patients to let us know if they cannot attend as soon as possible, so that we can offer the appointment to someone who really needs it.
“We all know general practice is short-staffed and we are working incredibly hard, so please help us to be as efficient as possible by cancelling your booked appointment by calling 01373 828330.
“By remembering to cancel your appointment, we can offer valuable time to other patients who might need it and reduce our overall waiting times.”
