Effective Communication and the Osteoporosis Care Gap
Katherine A P Ralston1, Barbara Hauser2,3, Zoe Paskins4,5
1Medicine for the Elderly, NHS Lothian, Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, UK.
The osteoporosis treatment gap highlights a care gap, not a treatment gap. Improving clinical conversations and patient engagement is key to addressing osteoporosis management effectively.
Area of Science:
- Bone and Mineral Research
- Pharmacology
- Patient Care
Background:
- Osteoporosis treatments exist to prevent fragility fractures.
- A significant "osteoporosis treatment gap" persists, with many eligible patients not receiving care.
- Reasons for the gap include under-identification and patient hesitancy due to information gaps or misunderstandings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of clear communication in osteoporosis treatment discussions.
- To review methods for improving patient understanding of treatment benefits and risks.
- To reframe the "treatment gap" as a "care gap".
Main Methods:
- Perspective article review.
- Discussion of communication strategies.
- Analysis of patient decision-making factors.
Main Results:
- Effective communication about osteoporosis causes, consequences, and treatment specifics is crucial.
- Presenting treatment benefits and risks in absolute terms enhances patient comprehension.
- Decision aids can facilitate informed patient choices.
Conclusions:
- The issue is a "care gap," emphasizing provider responsibility in identifying candidates and enhancing clinical dialogue.
- Improved patient engagement and shared decision-making are vital.
- Healthcare must respect individual patient suitability and preferences regarding osteoporosis treatment.
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