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Osteoporosis Screening Using the Fracture Risk Assessment Tool

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Chaduka, Chiedzo
Date
2025-05
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DNP Project
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Problem: In a primary care clinic in Maryland, postmenopausal women under the age of 65 were not being screened for osteoporosis as recommended by the US Prevention Screening Task Force. Preliminary data showed only 18% of eligible patients were being screened. The clinic lacked a validated screening tool for osteoporosis risk. Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to expand osteoporosis screening to include postmenopausal women 50 years and older seen at this primary care clinic. Methods: This project was initiated to screen patients using a validated Fracture Risk Assessment tool (FRAX), with results embedded in the electronic medical record (EMR) templates. FRAX questionnaires were completed by eligible patients at check-in using an online calculator by scanning a QR code, or with help from the medical assistants. The project representative gathered data over a 15-week period. FRAX scores guided treatment options and imaging as the providers determine fit. Staff buy-in was achieved through education, and morale-boosting initiatives. Reminder posters were placed around the clinic waiting areas and exam rooms. Key stakeholders included four medical assistants, two Advanced Practice Providers, and the Medical Director. Results: There was an overall uptake in screening practices for postmenopausal women over 50 from 18% in the previous year to 33.5% after implementation. Following the intervention, DEXA scan orders increased 7-fold compared to pre-implementation rates. Conclusion: Preliminary findings on the run chart show an upward trend in screening practices, demonstrating that the strategies employed in the earlier weeks were effective. As noted in the literature, screening can be a tool to open dialogue on osteoporosis prevention strategies between providers and patients.

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