New Report Shows Patient No-Shows and Cancellations Are Costing Doctors Big

59% of patients surveyed online reported not showing up or canceling doctor appointments in the past twelve months

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Tebra, the leader in practice automation solutions for independent healthcare practices, today announced its report, “Tackling patient no-shows and cancellations — what patients and providers really think.” One of the most significant findings in the report is that patient no-shows and cancellations cost healthcare providers as much as $7,500 per month, which translates to a loss of $375 per patient. Patients who responded online said the number one solution is same-day or next-day appointment availability with their physician to alleviate cancellations or simply not showing up. 79% of providers surveyed online revealed they rely on appointment reminders to prevent no-shows and cancellations.

Notable findings from the report include:

1. Prioritize your younger patients: 74% of Gen Z and Millennials surveyed online are more likely to attend appointments if offered same-day or next-day options, and 84% of those younger patients cancel or do not show up due to work conflicts. Providers can cater to patient schedules and work commitments by introducing evening and weekend appointment slots.
2. Prepayment discounts are an untapped solution: Capitalize on patients' positive response to prepayment discounts. 94% of providers surveyed don’t offer them, but 64% of patients surveyed online say they'd be more likely to show up if offered. Discounts for prepayment could reduce no-show rates and improve the financial health of your practice.
3. Digital engagement is critical: 75% of patients surveyed want online scheduling options. Implementing user-friendly online scheduling platforms gives patients the control to make real-time changes and can improve appointment adherence.

“Both patients and healthcare providers have their perspectives on this issue, and understanding these viewpoints can help improve the situation. Addressing this significant challenge in healthcare requires a multifaceted approach that considers both sides,” Jesse Noyes, vice president of organic marketing at Tebra, said. “By implementing strategies that improve communication, digital access, expanded payment options, and patient education, healthcare providers can reduce the impact of no-shows and enhance the overall patient experience.”

Built on the strength of Kareo and PatientPop, Tebra equips over 150,000 providers to deliver modernized care to patients everywhere.

Methodology

Tebra conducted the survey behind Tackling patient no-shows and cancellations — what patients and providers think in 2023. Tebra conducted an online survey of 1,075 patients and 204 healthcare providers to assess patient and provider behaviors when patients cancel or don’t attend medical appointments. Patients polled saw a mix of providers, including primary care physicians, dentists, medical specialists, and mental health providers. Of the providers surveyed, all personally see patients. For additional information on methodology, please contact Tebra.

About Tebra

In 2021, with a combined mission to unlock better healthcare, Kareo and PatientPop joined forces to form Tebra — a complete practice automation solution for independent healthcare providers. With an all-in-one, purpose-built platform to drive practice success and modernize every step of the patient journey, Tebra provides digital tools and support to attract new patients, deliver modern care, get paid quickly, and operate efficiently. To learn more about how Tebra is committed to improving patients' and providers' success and well-being, visit www.tebra.com.