Recognition for fracture service
From left is the Fracture Liaison Service team, Barb Bentley (coordinator), Kate Ball (orthopaedic surgeon), Fiona Logan (administrator), and Kim Fergusson (coordinator). Photo: Supplied.
More than 1000 patients have been supported by Te Whatu Ora Nelson Marlborough’s Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) since it began two years ago, and now it has earned international recognition.
The service has been awarded a Silver Star accreditation from the International Osteoporosis Foundation’s ‘Capture the Fracture’ programme.
Targeted at patients who have had a low-energy fracture and are at risk of osteoporosis, it bridges the care between hospital, primary care and community services, including both spinal and non-spinal fractures.
It also assists people in maximising bone health by providing education on lifestyle factors, minimising fall risk, and recommending medication if required.
Since it formed in 2022, the service has identified and supported over 1000 patients over 50 with fragility fractures.
Kate Ball, orthopaedic surgeon at Health NZ Nelson Marlborough, says the award reflects the efforts of the FLS team and support and engagement from the community, and secondary, primary and community services.
“The award assures our community that they are receiving a high quality and effective preventative service. We are delighted that the team has been acknowledged.”
Kate says that awareness of risk and early diagnosis is “key” to maintaining good bone health.
“Those who are over the age of 50 and have had a recent fracture are at double the risk of breaking another within a year.”
While there are some risk factors for osteoporosis and fractures that people can’t control, such as age and family history, she says there are lifestyle choices that can contribute to good bone health.
Regular weight-bearing exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol and adequate (and safe) sun exposure to absorb sufficient vitamin D all help to maintain good bone health.
According to a recent report, 80 per cent of fragility fractures in New Zealand are one of the ‘big five’ – hip, wrist, humerus, spine, or pelvis, and the average patient is 76 years old.
Those who think they may be at risk should contact their local GP for advice. For more information on bone health, go here.