Factors influencing multiple non-utilised healthcare appointments from patients’ and healthcare providers’ perspectives: a qualitative systematic review of the global literature
2024

Factors Influencing Missed Healthcare Appointments

Sample size: 151 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Aldadi Asrar, Robb Kathryn A, Williamson Andrea

Primary Institution: Taif University, School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow

Hypothesis

What factors influence multiple non-utilised healthcare appointments from patients’ and healthcare providers’ perspectives?

Conclusion

Strong provider–patient relationships and flexible scheduling improve care accessibility and reduce missed appointments.

Supporting Evidence

  • Strong provider–patient relationships improve care accessibility.
  • Flexible scheduling and patient-centred approaches are pivotal.
  • Addressing workplace discrimination is crucial for healthcare access.
  • Tailored healthcare services are essential for comprehensive delivery.
  • Overcoming geographical barriers is necessary for equitable access.

Takeaway

This study looks at why people miss their healthcare appointments and finds that good communication and support can help them attend more often.

Methodology

A systematic review of qualitative research using thematic synthesis to analyze factors influencing multiple non-utilised appointments.

Potential Biases

Potential bias due to methodological inconsistencies and reliance on researchers' experience.

Limitations

Limited number of studies included and challenges in distinguishing between single and multiple missed appointments.

Participant Demographics

Participants included patients and healthcare providers from diverse global healthcare settings.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3399/BJGPO.2024.0075

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