20 January 2012
New figures show that in the last year alone, people missing appointments at Epsom, St Helier and Sutton hospitals cost the Trust (and, in turn, taxpayers) more than £5 million.
In 2010-11, patients who did not attend outpatient and surgical appointments cost the hospitals a staggering £5,664,836 - that's enough to pay the salary of approximately 226 nurses for a whole year. Across the country, it is estimated that missed appointments cost the NHS more than £300 million.
Dr Ruth Charlton, Joint Medical Director said: "In light of these figures, I would like to ask all of our patients to please make sure you let us know if you can't make your appointment. We understand that sometimes, other things come up, but all that we ask is you tell us so that we continue our work without disruption.
"It's such a simple thing to do - just call us or email us at est-tr.appointments@nhs.net if there's a problem and we'll happily reschedule your appointment. Missed appointments are a needless waste of time and resources for us, as each one costs us approximately £126. We need your help to reduce this figure."
People who miss appointments are also an inconvenience for patients who do turn up, as they could have been seen in an earlier time slot.
It is easy to cancel or reschedule an appointment, ensuring that our patients get the treatment that they need at their convenience. Simply visit the special appointments section of our website to change the time or date you are due in to hospital, or call the number on your appointment letter.
Dr Charlton added: "As a consultant, I know only too well how disheartening it is when people don't turn up to their appointments and don't let us know. Of course, we only schedule appointments for the people who need them, so missing an appointment not only disrupts our service, but it could have a knock-on affect on your health."
Last year, we extended our reminder service for patients who have an upcoming appointment and now text or call people approximately one week before they are due to visit our hospitals. The service is free of charge for those who wish to participate.
