Telephone Reminder to Increase Appointment Rates

Reducing the Rate of Missed Appointments in an Outpatient Substance Use Treatment Clinic in Norway

Missed appointments to outpatient substance use treatment are common and costly and can have a negative effect on the health of patients.

In this quasi-experimental study, the investigators used an on-off design to examine whether a reminder "plus" intervention (telephone call from therapist before first appointment) would increase attendance and improve cancellation and rebooking practices. Secondary outcomes included satisfaction with treatment and intention to complete the treatment program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Newly referred patient
• > 18 years
• Diagnosis: Substance related disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who are unable to understand or score the survey due to cognitive or language barriers