Implementation of a Postfracture Care Program in a Private Hospital in Colombia.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the implementation of a postfracture care program in a private hospital in Colombia, the results achieved after the program's first year, and the challenges encountered.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study of the first year's outcomes. The program was implemented following best practices described in the "Capture the Fracture" framework. We assessed the management of fractures before the launch of the program. A multidisciplinary group was established to collaborate on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with osteoporotic fractures. A full-time program coordinator was appointed. We analyzed the program's clinical outcomes and limitations.

Results: One-hundred and ninety patients were included in the study, with an average age of 76.7. Hip fracture was the most frequent one (33.6%). After the first year of implementing the program, 39.4% of patients received osteoporosis treatment, with an adherence rate of 73%. The incidence of subsequent falls was 5.8% and 1% for new fractures.

Conclusions: The implementation of a program for patients' care with fragility fractures is challenging for healthcare institutions. The role of a full-time coordinator is critical for the proper operation of such programs.