Applying different numerator and denominator combinations meant that the same observed number of patients could have result ed in different reported rates .
OBJECTIVE To examine the methods used to calculate the reported medication initiation rates in secondary fracture prevention programs .
Osteoporosis disease management for fragility fracture patients: new understandings based on three years' experience with an osteoporosis care service.
OBJECTIVE To review the 3-year performance of an established osteoporosis care service and consider further improvements in an effort to reduce fragility fractures . METHODS Osteoporosis care has been coordinated for all willing and able patients with orthopedic fragility fractures in our health system by a nurse and medical director since 2003 , using a guideline -based care algorithm and task management software . Patients were followed by telephone for 2 years to monitor their status and optimize adherence to treatment . Demographics , management recommendations , clinical data , and adherence to treatment were review ed for the 2003 - 2005 patient population . RESULTS Of 1,019 patients with fragility fractures , 61 % underwent osteoporosis evaluation and treatment . The remainder included 15 % who refused to participate and 24 % who were unable to participate for various logistical and health reasons . More patients age > 80 years were unwilling or unable to participate . Bone densities ( dual x-ray absorptiometry [ DXA ] ) were normal , low , or osteoporotic in 24 % , 55 % , and 21 % of patients , respectively , and 60 % of the osteoporotic group had > or = 1 abnormal metabolic bone laboratory result . Only 17 % of the total reported a previous fracture , and 47 % had ever undergone DXA . Few experienced bone loss , a new fracture , or bisphosphonate intolerance during treatment . CONCLUSION An osteoporosis care service has coordinated care for every willing and able fragility fracture patient with positive outcomes . In addition , the results suggest a high priority for earlier proactive diagnosis and intervention of the at-risk population if fractures are to be reduced
Applying different numerator and denominator combinations meant that the same observed number of patients could have result ed in different reported rates .
OBJECTIVE To examine the methods used to calculate the reported medication initiation rates in secondary fracture prevention programs .