New Fragility Fracture Liaison Service

29/10/2008

Gloucestershire Primary Care Trust has launched a new service offering osteoporosis assessment for people across Gloucestershire aged 65 and over, who have recently broken a bone after a slip, trip or fall.

The new Fragility Fracture Liaison Service will offer an assessment into the likelihood of osteoporosis, which will include advice on diet, lifestyle, and how to reduce the chance of having another fall.

There is a range of effective medications that lowers the risk of a future break if someone has osteoporosis. The Fracture Liaison Nurses will be able to make recommendations on these and start treatment.

Patients who are admitted to hospital or who attend outpatient clinics or Accident and Emergency due to a low impact fracture – one gained from a fall, slip or trip from a standing height or lower – will be highlighted to the service so that dedicated nurses can assess the patients’ needs.

Trish Jay, Deputy Director of Care Services says: “Our bones become more fragile as we get older so it becomes easier to fracture them when we have a fall than it would do for younger people. This new Service will help support older people so they can be more in control of helping prevent further fractures. It is part of the PCT’s commitment to helping people be in control of their own health.”

The Fragility Fracture Liaison Service will work alongside existing teams in helping highlight ways to prevent falls, particularly in older people. It is advisable to see your doctor if you have had falls recently or you feel you are at risk of falling.

The Service can be contacted on 08454 224409. Dedicated nurses are available to provide advice to anyone concerned about fractures.