In a strategic move to combat appointment no-shows, health authorities will introduce an innovative oversubscription and waiting-list system for public dental services starting January 6, the Department of Health announced Friday.
The new approach comes after initial online registration efforts revealed significant scheduling inefficiencies, with numerous patients failing to attend their allocated appointments for various reasons, including forgetfulness and scheduling conflicts.
“We’re implementing a proactive solution to maximize service accessibility and minimize wasted healthcare resources,” a department spokesperson explained.
Under the new system, clinics will deliberately overbook appointments, creating a dynamic waiting list that prioritizes seniors aged 65 and older. Successful registrants must confirm their attendance, with unconfirmed slots rapidly reassigned to wait-listed patients.
Strict time protocols will be enforced: patients must arrive by 8:30 a.m., and clinic staff will begin filling vacant slots from 9:30 a.m. onwards.
“Our primary goal remains delivering high-quality dental services efficiently,” the spokesperson emphasized, indicating the department will continuously monitor the system’s effectiveness.
The initiative represents a data-driven approach to addressing healthcare scheduling challenges, potentially serving as a model for other public health services struggling with appointment no-show rates.
Patients are encouraged to register and confirm their appointments promptly to ensure access to critical dental care.