A service can be available without being reachable. Distance, cost, opening hours, language and trust each shape whether people can actually use it. Describe the population and the point in the care pathway where access breaks down before selecting a new technology or delivery model.
Define the gap
Name the service, the population and the setting. Distinguish people who never arrive from those who arrive but cannot complete care. A national average can conceal very different experiences within the same district.
Trace one complete journey
Map the steps from recognising a need to receiving follow-up. Ask people who use the service and those who stopped using it where they lose time, money or confidence. Record whose perspective is still absent.
Choose an observable change
Specify what will change in the service and how you will know whether access improved. Report the denominator, the time period and differences between groups. More appointments alone do not establish better health outcomes.