A new scheme is set to improve bone health and reduce the risk of fractures for residents across Mid and South Essex.
The Fracture Liaison Service, supported by the Royal Osteoporosis Society, aims to prevent fractures in the over 50s by ensuring those at risk of osteoporosis receive a comprehensive assessment and care plan tailored to their needs.
Across Mid and South Essex, there are estimated to be between 8,000 – 10,000 osteoporosis-related fractures per year. Fractures are the fourth worst cause of early disability and death in the area.
The service, which is expected to be rolled out in early 2024, will provide residents with ongoing support and education to ensure they have relevant information about fracture prevention and self-management strategies.
Dr Peter Scolding, assistant medical director for NHS Mid and South Essex ICB, said: ‘We expect this clinically-led, new service to have a really positive impact on improving people’s lives.
‘This investment is part of our commitment, working together with local people, to get upstream and prevent problems like fractures from happening, rather than just focussing on fixing things after they have occurred.’
He added: ‘We want to keep people as healthy and independent for as long as possible.’
Dr Way Wong, clinical lead for the Fracture Liaison Service at NHS Mid and South Essex Foundation Trust, described the initiative as an ‘exciting service transformation’.
‘At a system level, few people know that the cost of ongoing care from social and community services after hip fractures is as great as the immediate cost in hospital admissions, surgery, and rehabilitation,’ said Dr Wong.
Local healthcare professionals working through Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System’s stewardship programme will now help decide how best to roll out the service.
