Charles Inderjeeth1, Anabela Smeath. 1. Area Rehabilitation and Aged Care, University of Western Australia. charles.inderjeeth@health.wa.gov.au
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Bone mineral density is presently the only reliable diagnostic test for osteoporosis. METHODS: Using quantitative questionnaires, general practitioners prospectively evaluated their own investigation and treatment of osteoporosis in patients aged more than 70 years. RESULTS: Data are available for 114 GPs; 2850 patients (cycle 1) and 1710 patients (cycle 2). Of the 25.4% with a prior fracture, bone mineral density had been assessed in 55.5% (cycle 1) and 67.0% (cycle 2; p<0.05). Among patients with no documented prior fracture, bone mineral density had been assessed in 39.4% (cycle 1) and 56.9% (cycle 2; p<0.05). DISCUSSION: Bone mineral density is subsidised for all patients aged more than 70 years, yet GPs are more likely to request bone mineral density tests only among those who already have a fracture. General practitioner education on the role of bone mineral density testing among all patients aged 70 years or more is important as it influences initiation of appropriate osteoporosis treatment.
BACKGROUND: Bone mineral density is presently the only reliable diagnostic test for osteoporosis. METHODS: Using quantitative questionnaires, general practitioners prospectively evaluated their own investigation and treatment of osteoporosis in patients aged more than 70 years. RESULTS: Data are available for 114 GPs; 2850 patients (cycle 1) and 1710 patients (cycle 2). Of the 25.4% with a prior fracture, bone mineral density had been assessed in 55.5% (cycle 1) and 67.0% (cycle 2; p<0.05). Among patients with no documented prior fracture, bone mineral density had been assessed in 39.4% (cycle 1) and 56.9% (cycle 2; p<0.05). DISCUSSION: Bone mineral density is subsidised for all patients aged more than 70 years, yet GPs are more likely to request bone mineral density tests only among those who already have a fracture. General practitioner education on the role of bone mineral density testing among all patients aged 70 years or more is important as it influences initiation of appropriate osteoporosis treatment.