Why We Now Require a Deposit for All Bookings

Dear Valued Patients,

I’m writing this message not out of frustration, but from a place of respect — both for myself and for the many patients who value and honour their appointments.

As a doctor, my time is dedicated to helping people heal and feel better. Each appointment slot is carefully scheduled to give you the time, care, and attention you deserve. But lately, there has been a growing trend that I can no longer ignore: patients making appointments and then simply not showing up — no call, no message, no cancellation.

Every second counts

Imagine this:You make plans to meet a friend for coffee or dinner. You confirm the time, show up on time, and wait... but they never arrive. No message, no phone call, nothing.

How would you feel?

That’s exactly what happens in my clinic — regularly. It’s not just disappointing, it’s deeply disrespectful. More importantly, it robs someone else of the opportunity to receive treatment when they truly need it.

I understand life happens — emergencies, delays, unexpected events. We’re all human. But every one of us has a phone. A simple call or message is all it takes to free up that slot for someone else.

So What’s Changing?

To prevent this ongoing issue, we will now require a deposit for all bookings — no exceptions. This deposit confirms your appointment and shows respect for the clinic's time and resources.

• ✅ If you show up, the deposit is applied toward your treatment.

• ❌ If you cancel with reasonable notice, we can reschedule you.

• 🚫 If you don’t show up without notice, the deposit is forfeited.

If you choose not to pay the deposit, that’s okay — you’ll be placed on a waiting list and seen only if and when time allows.

This Deposit Policy Protects Everyone

This change is not meant to punish — it’s to ensure fairness. Because when people don’t show up, everyone loses:

• Someone else misses their chance to get better.

• Staff time is wasted.

• Valuable treatment slots go unused.

Most importantly, it protects the time and care of patients who do respect the process.

Thank you to those who always show up, call ahead, and treat this practice with courtesy. I see you, and I truly appreciate you.

Let’s continue to grow a community based on respect.Your health matters, and so does your time — and mine.

Warm regards,.

Dr Ron van As, Zambian Chiropractic