Some specialists text a confirmation, others send an email or call a week before. And some? Do absolutely nothing. I’ve been there — booked over the phone, showed up on the day, and just hoped my name was in the system. Spoiler: sometimes it wasn’t. After more than 100 appointments, here’s what I’ve learned: mistakes happen a lot.

• I’ve turned up at the wrong location.

• Been told my scan was cancelled because I didn’t do the prep (that no one told me about).

• I have waited three months for an appointment to find out the specialist did not treat my condition.

• Even had specialists simply not call at the scheduled time.

Now, I don’t leave it to chance. I send a quick confirmation email every time.

Here’s my template for specialists:

Hi [Clinic/Specialist Name],

I just wanted to confirm my appointment on [date] at [time] at [location].

Could you please confirm:
- That the booking is in your system.
- Whether any preparation is required for the consultation. 
- (Insert Specialist Name) has confirmed he treats (insert condition) and has access to my scans.

For context, my conditions include [insert conditions].

Thank you,
[Your Name]

Here’s my template for tests and procedures:

Hi [Clinic/Specialist Name],

I just wanted to confirm my appointment on [date] at [time] at [location].

Could you please confirm:
- That the booking is in your system.
- The arrival time (if different to the appointment time). 
- Whether any preparation is required ahead of the test or scan.

For context, my conditions include [insert, e.g. allergy to contrast dye, diabetes, etc.].

Thank you,
[Your Name]

It takes two minutes, saves a ton of stress, and ensures you’re not fasting unnecessarily or showing up to an empty waiting room. Because if there’s one thing the medical system has taught me — the squeaky wheel really does get the appointment.