Results of a fracture liaison service on hip fracture patients in an open healthcare system

Abstract

We assessed osteoporosis management in patients admitted for rehabilitation of acute hip fracture to an open system community hospital before and after institution of a fracture liaison service (FLS). Pre-FLS, we surveyed 60 patients 4-6 months after hip fracture. Subsequently, the FLS program performed routine consultations, and recommended lab, bone density testing (BMD) and osteoporosis medication. FLS program outcomes were assessed by survey in 75 patients after hip fracture. In the pre-FLS population, after hip fracture, 55 % changed calcium intake, 48 % changed vitamin D intake, and 35 % obtained a BMD. Osteoporosis medication was taken by 38 % before and 33 % after hip fracture. Post-FLS, 56 % changed calcium intake, 68 % changed vitamin D intake and 65 % obtained a BMD. Post-FLS, osteoporosis medication was taken by 21 % of patients before and 19 % after hip fracture. Our FLS program in hip fracture patients improved non-pharmacologic measures, but not the use of osteoporosis medication.

Keywords: FLS; Hip fracture; Osteoporosis treatment.