Mr William Hu, Mrs Sydney Cheng1
1St Vincents Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, Australia
Biography:
Sydney Cheng and Will Hu are Senior Physiotherapists leading the Osteoporosis Refracture Program. They specialise in fracture prevention, bone health, and rehabilitation through exercise and education. Working closely with endocrinologists, they focus on early intervention, structured exercise programs, and improving osteoporosis care pathways. Through research and quality improvement, they aim to enhance patient outcomes and make osteoporosis management more effective and accessible.
Abstract:
Background:
The Osteoporosis Refracture Prevention (ORP) Service at St Vincent's Hospital Sydney (SVHS) aims to reduce refracture rates and improve bone health awareness in patients with newly diagnosed osteoporosis and fragility fractures. This audit evaluates the effectiveness of the ORP clinic’s multidisciplinary (MDT) approach in mitigating refracture risk and improving adherence to osteoporosis management guidelines.
Methods:
A retrospective audit was conducted on patient outcomes 1 year after initial clinic visits. Survey data were collected on the primary outcomes of refracture rates and fall incidence, as well as the secondary outcomes of medication adherence, calcium intake, vitamin D supplementation, exercise habits, and patient satisfaction with the ORP service.
Results:
Of 108 patients who attended the ORP clinic between September 2022 and June 2023, 87% (n=91) responded to the follow-up survey. Three deceased patients were excluded, and 13% (n=14) patients did not respond. Among respondents, 7.7% (n=7) sustained new fractures. 76% (n=69) reported no falls, while 24% (n=22) experienced at least one fall. Medication adherence was 44% (n=40), 42.2% (n=38) met calcium intake recommendations, 61.5% (n=56) used vitamin D supplements, and 36.3% (n=33) engaged in weight-bearing exercises. Overall, 86.1% (n=68) reported high satisfaction.
Conclusion:
A MDT approach is essential for those with osteoporosis and those with high risk of refracturing, evident by low refracture, fall rates and high satisfaction. Whilst outcomes are positive, continued structured face to face engagement with the MDT may further sustain and enhance adherence to recommendations. Further refinement in education delivery is required to optimise patient care.