Equipping pharmacists to improve osteoporosis management for aged care residents: a pilot study

Osteoporosis is a common yet poorly managed condition among aged care residents. This suboptimal management results from medication-related issues, including undertreatment, inappropriate medication choice, and inadequate monitoring. Pharmacists working in aged-care settings have expressed a desire to improve osteoporosis management. However, gaps in their knowledge about osteoporosis management for aged care residents hinder their ability to do so. Providing pharmacists with education on best practices for osteoporosis management could help address this gap. This study pilots an osteoporosis management education initiative for aged care pharmacists and assesses its acceptance and impact on clinical practice.

An education initiative, based on Australian clinical guidelines and consensus recommendations for osteoporosis management of aged care residents, was developed and delivered to pharmacists. The pharmacist's acceptance of the initiative and its impact on clinical practice were evaluated through a questionnaire, focus groups, and content analysis of medication review reports completed pre- and post-attending the education initiative.

The education initiative was delivered to 33 pharmacists, and the content of 1030 medication reviews (515 pre- and 515 post-) was examined. The education initiative was positively received by pharmacists and found to improve their knowledge of osteoporosis. A statistically significant increase in the number of residents for whom medication-related problems relating to osteoporosis management was identified (χ ²(1,1030) = 13.476, p < .001) was observed following the education initiative. However, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme criteria, a desire to avoid polypharmacy and lack of interprofessional collaboration, were found to be barriers to these medication-related problems being resolved.

The education initiative showed an increase in pharmacists' knowledge and prioritisation of osteoporosis management for aged care residents. Barriers to these improvements in residents' osteoporosis care were identified. Addressing these barriers is essential if pharmacists' potential to enhance osteoporosis management in aged care residents is to be realised.