With the increasing in ageing population, the prevalence of fragility fractures (FF) is expected to rise. A robust approach to manage osteoporosis, the underlying cause of fragility fracture, and its consequences is essential. The International Osteoporosis Foundation’s (IOF) Capture the Fracture® campaign advocates for worldwide implementation of Fragility Liaison Service (FLS), aiming to disrupt the FF cycle. FLS is designed to streamline patient care from hospitalization to rehabilitation, therefore to reduce the future incidence and healthcare costs associated with FF.
Since 2018, the Hospital Authority has implemented the FLS in three hospitals, including Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and United Christian Hospital, and has since expanded to 13 hospitals across all clusters. The goals of FLS are 1) improving FF care by implementing integrated clinical pathways and coordinating multi-disciplinary care, FLS ensures seamless, quality treatment; and 2) preventing secondary fracture by utilizing proactive tracing systems to identify, investigate, and initiate treatment to mitigate the risk of subsequent FFs.
FLNs are the key component of the Fracture Liaison Service, providing comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of FF patients. Their role extends beyond clinical care, including education and coordination, thereby ensuring the program’s effectiveness in preventing secondary fractures and improving patient outcomes.
