Development of a multidisciplinary osteoporosis telehealth program
Leigh Dickson1, Cathy Cameron, Gillian Hawker
1Women's College Hospital, Osteoporosis Research Program, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
A telehealth program successfully delivered multidisciplinary osteoporosis care, improving access to specialists. This model is feasible and beneficial for patients needing osteoporosis management.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Osteoporosis management requires multidisciplinary care, including medication, nutrition, exercise, and fall prevention.
- Ontario faces a shortage of physicians, impacting optimal osteoporosis care delivery.
- A telehealth program was established to address access barriers to specialist osteoporosis care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of delivering a multidisciplinary osteoporosis program via telehealth.
- To evaluate the program's effectiveness in improving access to specialist osteoporosis care.
- To identify the impact on patient knowledge and comfort levels.
Main Methods:
- A multidisciplinary osteoporosis telehealth program was developed, adapted from an existing outpatient model.
- Patients were referred by family physicians for specialist consultation.
- Consultation duration averaged two hours.
Main Results:
- The telehealth program proved feasible for delivering multidisciplinary osteoporosis care.
- Ninety-two percent of patients would use the service again and recommend it.
- Patient knowledge about osteoporosis increased significantly (90%), with high comfort levels (83%) during consultations.
Conclusions:
- Telehealth is a viable method for delivering specialized osteoporosis care.
- The program enhanced access to osteoporosis management, particularly for complex cases.
- This initiative highlights the need for accessible osteoporosis services in underserved communities.
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