Doctors are increasingly turning to digital communication, but many patients feel ignored when their messages go unanswered. New research shows that a significant portion of patient inquiries sent via secure portals or email never receive a timely response, leaving patients frustrated and sometimes delaying care. The piece explores why this “read‑but‑unanswered” trend is rising—from staffing shortages to workflow inefficiencies—and examines potential solutions such as automated triage, clearer response timelines, and better integration of digital tools into clinical practice. It also highlights patient stories and expert opinions on how timely communication can improve outcomes and trust in the doctor‑patient relationship.