No-Show Rates in a Cardiology Clinic During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Retrospective Analysis From a Safety-Net Hospital

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly increased no-show rates for outpatient cardiology visits, particularly among underserved populations, highlighting the vulnerability of low socioeconomic status patients. This disruption in routine care underscores the need for continued development of strategies to ensure consistent healthcare access during crises. University Health System employs many outreach and other programs to help those struggling with SDOH and yet the strain of the pandemic was still seen. Other studies have demonstrated that telehealth may serve as a bridge to addressing care gaps in the underserved population. Further research is required to assess the short and long-term health impacts of missed appointments and to continue developing solutions for improving healthcare access in patients struggling with SDOH.