Setting up SMS appointment reminders
Applies to: practices using the Lanas appointment book.
Automatic SMS reminders reduce missed appointments by reminding patients a day or two beforehand, and let them confirm or cancel by replying.
Turn on reminders
- Sign in with a practice admin account.
- Go to Settings > Patient communications > SMS reminders.
- Switch on Send appointment reminders.
- Choose when to send them, for example 24 or 48 hours before the appointment.
- Edit the message template if you'd like, then click Save.
Let patients reply
Turn on Allow replies so patients can reply Y to confirm or N to cancel. Cancellations free the slot in the appointment book automatically.
Tips
- Keep messages short and include the practice name, date and time.
- Patients without a mobile number on file won't receive reminders. Check the Missing mobile report regularly.
- Messages use your practice's registered sender name.
Reminders not sending?
Check that the patient's mobile number is correct and that they haven't opted out. If reminders have stopped for all patients, contact support.