According the Levin Group Data Center, practices that confirm patients have a 30% lower no-show rate than offices that don't. Some practices view confirmation calls as a time-consuming activity that takes time away from other important office responsibilities. In fact, confirmation calls are crucial to practice production.
Script calls. The call should be thought of as providing helpful customer service to patients. It should be explained in an introductory script that says something like, "As a service from our practice, you will receive a reminder call approximately 48 hours in advance of your next appointment." This is an excellent opportunity to ask patients what number would be the best to contact them for the confirmation and ask for their cellphone number.
Don't rely on home phone numbers. Patients respond to their cellphones more frequently and check their messages more often. Make sure your patient information form asks for this important number.
