Publication:

Frequency and determinants of missed appointments in the outpatient clinics of a tertiary care Hospital

Background Missed outpatient appointments remain a major challenge in healthcare delivery, leading to inefficient resource utilization, longer waiting times and disrupted continuity of care. This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed the rate and factors contributing to missed appointments among patients attending the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital.

Methods A total of 100 patients who missed their scheduled appointments were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26 with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests and Pearson’s correlation.

Results Most participants were urban residents (66%), aged 25–40 years (61%) and self-employed or employed in small private enterprises (60%). Forgetfulness (mean=4.05) and lack of appointment reminders (mean=4.00) were the leading reasons for non-attendance. No significant association was found between appointment reminders or work-related obligations and missed appointments (p>0.05). However, forgetfulness showed a significant positive correlation with missed appointments (r=0.392, p<0.001). Distance from the hospital was not significantly associated with non-attendance (p=0.525).

Conclusions Behavioural and healthcare system–related factors, particularly forgetfulness and limited rescheduling flexibility, had a greater influence on missed appointments than demographic or geographic factors. Strengthening reminder systems, simplifying rescheduling and improving patient awareness may enhance appointment adherence and outpatient efficiency.