❓ What is a DNA?
A DNA appointment is when a patient does not attend their booked appointment and does not contact the surgery to cancel or rearrange it.
Missed appointments create a significant strain on NHS resources and can delay care for other patients.
We do understand that sometimes there are exceptional reasons why you may be unable to cancel (for example, if you are admitted to hospital).
📝 Our DNA policy
- If you miss 2 or more appointments in one month, you will receive a warning letter.
- If you have already had a warning letter and miss another appointment, you will receive a second letter.
- This will state that you may only book same-day appointments and not book in advance.
- If you do not attend same-day appointments, we will invite you to discuss a contracted appointment plan.
- This may include calling to confirm your appointment; if you do not confirm, the appointment will be cancelled.
- Warning letters remain valid for 12 months.
✅ Cancelling appointments
Please help us reduce DNAs by cancelling appointments you cannot attend:
- Use the NHS App or online services to cancel.
- Reply to your appointment text reminder to cancel directly.
- Call the surgery as soon as possible if you cannot attend.
💡 Please make sure we have your correct mobile number so you can receive text reminders.
📞 Contact us
If you would like to discuss our DNA policy or need help with cancelling appointments, please contact the surgery.
✨ By cancelling in good time, you help us offer appointments to other patients who need care.