Background
Bone mineral density is presently
the only reliable diagnostic test for
osteoporosis.
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.
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).
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