As your patients increasingly use the Internet, explore ways to use e-mail and your Web page to remind them about appointments. Many practices already send e-mail reminders to patients who prefer that method; others allow—and encourage—making, changing, and confirming non-urgent appointments online.
Reminding patients of upcoming appointments works—and automating the process makes it more affordable. Implement a system of your own. If you already have one in place, take the time to review how well it works and whether you’re taking advantage of technology already in place.