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Updated: May 30, 2026
07:35
Creating Rigidly Stabilized Fractures for Assessing Intramembranous Ossification, Distraction Osteogenesis, or Healing of Critical Sized Defects
Published on: April 11, 2012
Fracture prevention in Kaiser Permanente Southern California
1Department of Orthopedics, Kaiser Permanente, 9353 E Imperial Hwy, Downey, CA 90242, USA. Richard.M.Dell@kp.org
Summary
The Kaiser Permanente Healthy Bones Program reduced hip fractures by over 40% using a systematic, technology-driven approach. This osteoporosis treatment program identifies, stratifies, and tracks patients with care gaps, improving bone health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Osteoporosis and fracture care present significant challenges in healthcare.
- Identifying and addressing care gaps is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the systematic, ten-step process of the Kaiser Permanente Healthy Bones Program.
- To evaluate the program's impact on osteoporosis and fracture care.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing information technology and care managers for patient identification and risk stratification.
- Implementing a systematic process to treat and track patients with osteoporosis care gaps.
- Increasing DXA screening and ensuring appropriate osteoporosis treatment.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 40+% reduction in the expected number of hip fractures in 2009.
- Demonstrated the effectiveness of a systematic, technology-assisted care management approach.
- Attributed fracture reduction to increased DXA screening and timely osteoporosis treatment.
Conclusions:
- The Healthy Bones Program successfully reduced hip fractures through systematic care management.
- Information technology and care managers are key components in addressing osteoporosis care gaps.
- Proactive screening and treatment significantly improve bone health outcomes and reduce fracture incidence.
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