Data shows more than 15 million consultations are being wasted because patients fail to show up, costing the NHS around £200 Million a year.
NHS England said cancelling appointments would free doctors, nurses and other professionals to see people who need care and attention. It would also relieve such medical professionals of any worry or concern about the patients health. The British Medical Association urged patients to “play their part” to help the NHS cope with rising demand. NHS Digital GP appointments data shows more than 1.2 million GP hours are being wasted each year.
NHS England said “each appointment cost an average of £30 and the overall expense of patients not cancelling appointments could pay for the annual salary of 2,325 full-time GPs.”
According to Dr Nikki Kanani, the acting director of primary care for NHS England, and a GP in south-east London, the £200m+ could also fund about 58,000 hip operations or 220,000 cataract operations.
The NHS and Dr Kanani’s team have deliberately made it easier to cancel appointments, with online services readily available 24/7. She explains: “Our message is clear. If you cannot make it to your appointment or no longer need a consultation, please let your GP practice know in advance.”
