Abstract
Objective: To determine patient characteristics predictive of follow up and to study the impact of short message service (SMS) based reminders in improving the follow up rates
Methodology: This randomized clinical trial was carried out from February to April 2015. Patients seen in general medicine outdoor clinic requiring a follow up visit were included. Demographic data were recorded. Date of the subsequent follow up visit was communicated verbally as well in writing. One day before the appointment, half of the patients were selected randomly using computer generated random number tables and were sent text reminders for follow up. The remaining did not receive any reminder. Attendance of all patients was marked the next day.
Results: Out of total 641 patients, 320 were sent text messages, out of which 41.88% did not follow up. Of the 321 not sent text messages, 57.01% did not follow up (p<0.001). Patients sent text messages were 1.8 times more likely to keep their appointments. Patients older than 50 years were 1.5 times more likely to follow up at the particular day. Gender, education, travelling time and the type of patient did not have any impact on follow up rates.
Conclusion: Text messages improve no-show rates in general medicine clinic. Older patients are more likely to follow up on time.

Key words: Office visits, reminder systems, no- shows, attendance.