18/02/2026
As a practice, we are working hard to improve our systems and reduce waiting times for appointments. This is an ongoing challenge faced by many services across the NHS, and it requires the support and cooperation of both staff and patients.
One of the most significant factors and easily fixed factors affecting appointment availability is the current level of “Did Not Attend” (DNA) appointments within the practice.
DNA data (16 January – 16 February):
Nurses/HCA appointments: 20 hours lost
GP appointments: 34 hours lost
This represents a substantial amount of clinical time that could have been used to support other patients in need of care. At a time when demand for services is high, this level of missed appointments is not sustainable and contributes directly to longer waiting times for everyone.
We kindly ask all patients to inform us as soon as possible if they are unable to attend their appointment. Cancelling in advance allows us to offer that time to another patient who may be waiting for care.
Appointments can be cancelled in several ways:
Replying to the automated text message reminder
Using Airmid or the NHS App to cancel remotely
Calling the surgery to cancel
Your support in reducing missed appointments makes a significant difference to the service we can provide and helps ensure timely access to care for all patients.
Kind Regards
Daniel Robinson
Practice Manager
Leigh View Medical
