SIR – I’m appalled at the staggering number of NHS missed hospital appointments.

When you read and see on the news the amount of people on long NHS waiting lists, this does not seem possible.

Having said that, you cannot get in to see my doctor for at least 72 hours. When you go in, there is always a sign that says at least 35 patients didn’t attend appointments that week.

Some people are so selfish. They don’t have the decency to phone and cancel in time for someone else to have this opportunity. This is why they should be penalised financially. When you are hit with a £30 parking fine or a £60 speeding ticket, what are the chances that you will reoffend? Very slim. It’s the only way people will learn when it hits them in the pocket!

Patients who miss their appointments without prior notice or a valid reason should be charged. The problem with this country is there is too much given for free. These patients just don’t appreciate how lucky they are to have free healthcare. Can you imagine how much revenue could be raised if everyone was charged for just their first missed appointment!

Angela Anderson, Harehills Avenue, Leeds