Missed appointments policy (DNA)

Last Updated: Monday, 19 May 2025

Did not attend (DNA) overview

At Blundellsands Surgery, during each month a number of patients are recorded as being a DNA, meaning that the patient neither attended their appointment nor advised the practice within 24 hours prior to the scheduled appointment, to enable a cancellation or change to their appointment to be made. 

 

How do DNA's effect our service? 

• An increase in waiting times for patients resulting in the risk of worsening patients' health
• A waste of the organisation's time - Not simply the clinicians' time but also that of the administration team as the appointment invariably needs to be rebooked
• Cost to the wider NHS in the requirement of additional clinicians
• Potential of risk to a child who is reliant upon an adult to ensure that they attend their appointment