Northern NSW Local Health District has introduced a new Osteoporosis Re-fracture Prevention Service to the Richmond Health Service centred at Lismore Base Hospital, alongside similar programs in Tweed and Grafton.
The program has employed Craig Knox as The Fracture Liaison Co-ordinator to identify people aged over 50 following a minimal trauma fracture (MTF) or fragility fracture, and then along with Dr Julia Lisle (Staff Specialist Geriatrician) investigate and initiate treatment and management of their Bone Health.
The program is based on the ACI model of care for Osteoporotic Re-fracture Prevention which shows that people are more likely to adhere to treatment for osteoporosis if they are case managed.
Osteoporosis is an under recognised chronic disease. Current statistics are showing that 46% of people who have a MTF over 50 will re-fracture within 2 years. All evidence based guidelines highlight the need to intervene at the time of the first fracture to prevent the next fracture. National audits are showing that only 20-30% of patients are being identified at the time of their first fracture as needing care to prevent the next fracture.
North Coast Health Pathways have up to date strategies in the management of Osteoporosis.
A clinic is currently being held on alternate Fridays at LBH Specialist Outpatients Clinic and is aimed at reviewing patients not already receiving appropriate management of their bone health. The clinic not only looks at pharmacological treatment but addresses other major risk factors such as falls risk, poor diet and lack of exercise. Patients will be provided with an education session and referred to other services such as falls prevention programs, allied health and community exercise programs as deemed appropriate.
For further information, please contact Craig Knox on 0447 287 619.
If you wish to refer to the service please address referrals to Dr Julia Lisle, osteoporotic re-fracture prevention clinic and fax to 02 6620 7307.
