Patient Non-Attendance for MRI and MSCT Examinations in Croatia: An Observational Study Using Administrative and...

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Healthcare Management
• Public Health

Background:

• Patient non-attendance for diagnostic imaging is a significant healthcare challenge.
• Long wait times for MRI and MSCT may disproportionately impact older adults and those with access barriers.
• Understanding non-attendance patterns is crucial for improving healthcare system efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze patterns of MRI and MSCT non-attendance in a Croatian hospital.
• To identify demographic factors associated with non-attendance.
• To explore patient-reported reasons for missed appointments and suggest improvements.

Main Methods:

• Observational study of 2419 MRI and MSCT non-attendances (2019-2022).
• Telephone interviews with 200 patients who missed appointments to gather reasons and perceived consequences.
• Statistical analysis of non-attendance data by age, sex, modality, and time period.

Main Results:

• Non-attendance patterns significantly differed by age and imaging modality (MRI: younger/middle-aged; MSCT: older patients).
• Reasons for non-attendance varied: forgetting appointments for MSCT, transportation issues for MRI.
• 60% reported negative treatment consequences, and 77% favored telephone reminders.

Conclusions:

• Patient non-attendance for diagnostic imaging is linked to specific demographic and organizational factors.
• System-level interventions, like targeted reminders, can address modifiable barriers.
• Improving access to diagnostic services requires understanding and mitigating reasons for missed appointments.