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Patient appointment failures in pediatric resident continuity clinics
C T Rust1, N H Gallups, W S Clark
1Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Ga, USA.
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|June 1, 1995
Summary
Pediatric resident continuity clinics nationally experience high appointment failure rates, averaging 30.9% no-shows. Clinic payment methods were identified as a key factor influencing these failures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Healthcare
- Medical Education
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Continuity clinics are crucial for pediatric resident training and patient care.
- High appointment failure rates can negatively impact resident learning, patient outcomes, and clinic operational efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify national appointment failure rates in pediatric resident continuity clinics.
- To identify clinic-specific characteristics associated with appointment failure.
Main Methods:
- A national survey was distributed to directors of pediatric residencies' continuity clinics.
- Data were collected using a one-page questionnaire administered via facsimile.
Main Results:
- A response rate of 80% (160 of 200 directors) was achieved.
- The mean appointment no-show rate was 30.9%, with significant variability (3% to 80%).
- The mode of payment was the only identified independent predictor of appointment failure.
Conclusions:
- Appointment failure represents a significant challenge in pediatric resident continuity clinics.
- Addressing high no-show rates is essential for optimizing resident education, patient care delivery, and clinic efficiency.