Fracture liaison services: successful implementation in Belgium using a regional healthcare quality improvement initiative

Abstract

Introduction

Fracture liaison services (FLS) are an evidence-based method to improve the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis in post-fracture patients and the quality of secondary fracture prevention. The Capture the Fracture® initiative provides a systematic framework for the development, implementation, continued improvement, and recognition of FLS internationally. This short communication is aimed at describing the progress and successful elements of FLS implementation in Belgium.

Methods

Descriptive report of a healthcare quality improvement initiative in accordance with SQUIRE 2.0 reporting standards.

Results

The first FLS Academy and Network (FAN) meeting in Belgium was held in 2023. Further regional working group activities resulted in rapid expansion from 5 to 20 recognized FLS centres in the country over 2.5 years, almost exclusively situated in the provinces where field support activities were focused.

Conclusion

A regional approach involving multiple stakeholders in partnership with industry can successfully facilitate implementation of national guidelines and close the care gap post-fracture in osteoporosis, even in the absence of governmental support.

Summary

We report the successful implementation of fracture liaison services in Belgian hospitals in two provinces using a regional action plan involving a clinical-industry collaboration, despite the absence of government financial incentives. Insights from this healthcare quality improvement initiative could serve as a blueprint to further close the osteoporosis care gap.