Showing up for no-shows: Why transportation equity matters

Paediatric care is intrinsically rewarding. Preventing and mitigating disease while supporting patients and families means a better life for everyone. However, every paediatrician faces the frustration of appointment nonattendance and, especially tough, the dilemma of serial no-attendance—do we discharge the patient or impact our overflowing waitlist? Inequitable transportation compounds sociodemographic barriers to healthcare access. This article explores how ‘transportation deserts’, impact patients and what paediatricians can do to improve equitable access while decreasing ‘no-shows.’