Italian health services introduce new appointment management tools

Health authorities in Italy are implementing measures to improve the management of medical appointments and reduce missed visits.

In L'Aquila, Asl 1 Abruzzo has launched a new SMS service that sends reminders to patients four days before a scheduled visit or exam. This service allows users to cancel or reschedule appointments via the regional CUP number, pharmacies, or the official website. The initiative aims to assist citizens in avoiding legal penalties for non-attendance caused by simple forgetfulness while optimizing healthcare scheduling.

In Benevento, the local Asl is working with Federconsumatori to provide direct support for canceling specialist visits and diagnostic exams. Dedicated assistance desks have been established in Benevento and San Giorgio del Sannio to help citizens navigate cancellation procedures. These efforts are intended to free up appointment slots for other patients and ensure more efficient use of healthcare resources.