Fine patients who miss appointments, suggest half of GPS

HALF of GPS want to introduce fines for patients who do not turn up to appointments, a survey has revealed. The poll by Pulse magazine found 51 per cent backed the idea of charges for patients who failed to attend booked slots.

GPS said charges might make people more likely to turn up, or to cancel if they could not attend. One suggested a £10 charge, while others said a refundable deposit would make patients think twice about failing to turn up.

The Health Secretary has said he has no problem in principle with charging patients for missing slots. GP shortages have led to rising waiting times, with one in five now waiting at least a week to see their doctor, and more than one in 10 unable to get an appointment at all.