Abstract
Introduction: Osteoporosis causes significant deterioration of bone health predisposing individuals to an increased risk of fractures. Hip fractures in particular lead to increased mortality, morbidity and substantial economic burden on the healthcare system. Early identification of high-risk individuals is crucial to improve patient-related outcomes and significantly reduce the burden on our healthcare system. The objective of this quality improvement project (QIP) is to promote osteoporosis risk assessment in the frailty unit at North Manchester General Hospital (NMGH), by introducing a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) inclusive of a bone health risk evaluation. Methods: CGA, including a formal bone health assessment (as per NICE guidelines April 2023) was implemented in our frailty unit. This QIP was carried out in two cycles. Baseline data was collected (N = 33) retrospectively in January 2023 before CGA implementation followed by data collection in May 2023, to evaluate CGA with bone health assessment inclusion as an intervention (N=31). At the end of cycle one the results were presented to staff including education on CGA and bone health. Cycle two, conducted in June 2024 assessed compliance (N=30). Results: Bone health assessment compliance improved from 15% at baseline to 55% after cycle one and 83% after cycle two. When evaluated for inclusion of a bone health treatment plan, the baseline value was 31% which improved to 84% and 90% in cycles one and two, respectively. Conclusion: Implementing CGA with the bone health assessment standardised interventions to improve patient’s bone health admitted to the frailty unit at NMGH. CGA also helped identify people at risk of fractures and to initiate prompt management. This QIP helped our frailty unit to adhere to NICE guidance, thereby improving the quality of care offered at NMGH.