no shows & cancellations

[Corinna]

no shows & cancellations

While fibromyalgia is a terrible thing to live with, it is a manageable lifestyle changing disease. We should be empathetic, but not enabling. I have seen hundreds of patients with fibromyalgia, and while they may be having a terrible day we cannot understand, it is not beyond them to call when they can and apologize for the missed appointment. There are still basic common courtesies that are expected of all of us. I do not know a single therapist who would not be understanding. Sounds like a heart to heart discussion with this client is needed.

 

[Artman]

I can't say I am the queen of interpersonal  communication. However, with the FMS client who is also a friend, I would probably simply say to her with good humor, when she tries to book her next appointment, "You are coming this time? Don't leave me hanging again!" or something to the effect.At least with my friends I would feel OK about sort of baldly jesting about the previous no show and ask them to promise, cross their hearts to be sure and show up for the next appointment.I do try to allow everyone to be human and make mistakes at least once. After that I take off the kid gloves and become very strict with people who can't respect my time or business.

 

[Cheese]

As far as cancellations go, it is an unfortunate aspect of our very fortunate careers.  I usually give people the benefit of doubt the first time.  The second time, I kindly explain that I only get paid when someone is on my table, and that I have now given away 2 hours of my time without compensation.  The third time, if they dare, I let them know that they have to call me the day they would like a massage, and if I have an availability its theirs.  Now, gift certificates...in some states expiration dates don't matter.  They must be honored.

 

[griersetrorry]

Keep this in mind, last year California passed a law stating that gift certificates may not contain expiration dates.  I don' sell many gift certificates so I haven't looked into this too closely.  I'm not sure of all the details.  When I sell a gift certificate, I usually call the person and welcome them to my practice.  At that time, I recommend they schedule their appointment, and almost all do.  Quite honestly, I don't like keeping track of them and I rather get them in and onto a potentially regular appointment, then wait and see if they come in.  I don't know if similar laws have been passed elsewhere, but it would be prudent to know what you can and can not do legally in your area.  Joe E.