About this action

Patients who repeatedly miss appointments often face the most complex barriers and the worst health outcomes. A dedicated coordinator function, perhaps included in the job-role of a link worker or social prescriber, ensures these patterns are noticed, understood, and addressed. Approaches to implementation: - Define the coordinator role, including monitoring patterns, coordinating outreach, and advocating for flexible responses Provide protected time and training on trauma-informed approaches and motivational interviewing - Regular review of missingness data to identify trends and test new approaches - Establish pathways for staff to refer patients showing signs of disengagement - Create links with community organisations who may have contact with missing patients - Ensure the coordinator has authority to suggest and implement flexible solutions Key benefits: Creates accountability for addressing missingness, ensures coordinated rather than fragmented responses, and demonstrates institutional commitment to reaching those most at risk of poor health outcomes.