No show: incidence of nonattendance at a dermatology practice in a single universal payer model

J Cutan Med Surg. 2007 Mar-Apr;11(2):53-6. doi: 10.2310/7750.2007.00005.

Abstract

Background: Nonattendance at scheduled appointments is a major problem. Previous studies have shown rates between 17 and 31%. Most US studies found the type of payer to be the greatest determinant of attendance rates.

Objectives: This study examines the no-show rate in a private dermatology practice under a single universal payer model, including the effects of old versus new patient, gender, day of the week, month, and weather.

Results: The overall rate of nonattendance was lower than in all previous studies (7.79%), with the only statistically significant variable being established versus new patients.

Limitations: Certain demographic data investigated in previous studies (eg, age, socioeconomic status) were not assessable. Data are from a single office.

Conclusion: The no-show rate in a single universal payer, private practice model is low, especially for established patients.

MeSH terms

  • Appointments and Schedules*
  • Dermatology / economics
  • Dermatology / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • National Health Programs
  • Patient Dropouts / classification
  • Patient Dropouts / statistics & numerical data*
  • Private Practice / economics
  • Private Practice / statistics & numerical data*
  • Quebec
  • Single-Payer System / statistics & numerical data*