Low-trauma (sometimes referred to as fragility fractures) occur spontaneously or following minor trauma such as coughing, sneezing or falling from standing height. Individuals who sustain such a fracture are at a much higher risk of sustaining a second or third fracture, leading to progressive disability, chronic pain and decreased quality of life. Despite the availability of effective treatments that can reduce future fracture risk by up to 50%, less than 20% of patients suffering low-trauma fractures receive such treatments in their post-fracture care. This is the post-fracture osteoporosis care gap.

 

Systematic reviews of different clinical models of care designed to close the osteoporosis care gap have found that the Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) model was the most effective at improving patient care outcomes after an osteoporosis related fracture. Integral to an FLS program is a dedicated coordinator who pro-actively identifies fracture patients, determines their risk of having repeat fractures and facilitates effective osteoporosis treatment for high-risk patients. FLS programs “capture” the patients at the point of orthopedic care, and seamlessly integrate secondary fracture prevention into the acute fracture experience. The coordinator also links with primary care providers to maintain communication during patient assessment and upon discharge from the FLS to ensure sustainability and follow-through of initiated interventions. FLS will improve osteoporosis care for fracture patients in addition to reducing overall healthcare costs by preventing expensive repeat fractures.