Dear Editor, Cuero is extremely fortunate to have an acute care hospital with its corresponding clinics. Providing healthcare has significant challenges. Taking calls, answering questions and scheduling appointments are currently some of the most substantial.
Optimizing the healthcare system for the community requires efficiency from not only the healthcare system, but also from the public. One significant issue is the frequency of what I will call “NO SHOWS” for scheduled appointments. These individuals schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider and fail to show for their appointment without any call or notification to the clinic. While things can unexpectedly happen the failure to contact the clinic impacts others in the community who need healthcare.
In a recent 2-month period there were 600 “NO SHOWS” in the system. This amounts to the number of appointments available from two full time physicians in this stretch of time. This is very expensive; costs tax dollars and is time consuming. It impacts the ability to serve other patients and is inconsiderate.
The community and healthcare system must work together to optimize the availability of healthcare for everyone. If you have an appointment and can’t make it for whatever reason, please call and let the clinic know. It is a BIG DEAL.
Faye Sheppard
