Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Improving Osteoporosis Screening Rates In A Rural Primary Care Clinic, Lindsay Marlatt

Culminating Experience Projects

Background and Objectives: Osteoporosis related fracture rates are high yet lack of screening and education on osteoporosis remains a significant problem. The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends bone mineral density testing in women ≥ 65 and in women aged 50-64, based on specific risk factors. Using a screening tool such as the simple calculated osteoporosis risk tool (SCORE) is beneficial in identifying individuals that should be referred for BMD testing. Screening for BMD using dual-energy absorptiometry (DXA) is the gold standard in predicting major fractures, allowing for timely intervention in the primary care setting. Consequently, a plan …