What is the term for a patient who has not had an appointment in over 3 years but returns for a visit?

The term that accurately describes a patient who has not had an appointment in over 3 years but returns for a visit is an inactive patient. This designation is used in medical settings to classify patients who have had no visits for a significant period, typically defined by the practice. After a certain length of time, such as three years, these patients are usually considered inactive in the context of their relationship with the healthcare provider or practice.

When a patient returns after such a long absence, their status changes in the practice's records, and they may be required to go through updated intake processes as they may need new documentation or verification of their medical history. This ensures that the practice has current information, which is crucial for effective treatment.

In contrast, an established patient is someone who has an ongoing relationship with the practice, having had recent visits, while a new patient is one who is seeing the provider for the first time. A returning patient suggests familiarity but does not accurately reflect the long gap in care. Thus, the designation of inactive patient appropriately captures the situation where the individual has not engaged with the healthcare provider in an extended period.