Appointment Reminder

An automated SMS or email sent to a patient before their scheduled appointment, typically 24 or 48 hours in advance. Reminders reduce no-show rates by keeping the appointment top of mind and giving patients a chance to confirm or reschedule. Most platforms allow customizable timing and message templates.

Related terms

• No-ShowWhen a patient misses a scheduled appointment without canceling or rescheduling in advance. No-shows cost practices revenue and waste provider time. Automated reminders, pre-visit intake, and no-show follow-up workflows significantly reduce no-show rates by keeping patients engaged before their visit.
• SMS Consent (TCPA)The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) requires businesses to obtain prior express consent before sending automated text messages to patients. Healthcare practices must document consent, honor opt-out requests, and avoid messaging patients who have not agreed to receive texts. Non-compliance can result in significant fines.
• Workflow AutomationPredefined sequences of actions triggered by events. For example, when a patient books an appointment, the system automatically sends a confirmation, schedules a reminder for 24 hours before, emails an intake link, and queues a post-visit follow-up. Workflows eliminate manual follow-up and ensure no patient falls through the cracks.