Impact of a community pharmacist‐directed clinic in improving screening and awareness of osteoporosis

Abstract Rationale, aims and objectives There is a need to increase screening and awareness of osteoporosis risk in order to prevent fractures and related morbidity. Although one in two women are at risk of developing the condition, only one in five receives bone mineral density screening. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effectiveness of an osteoporosis screening and awareness programme directed by a pharmacist in the community setting. Methods The study design to test for improved awareness was a prospective, pre–post trial with no control group. The level of awareness of risk was assessed both before the screening and following an educational intervention on osteoporosis provided in the pharmacy. Based on assessed risk level, a recommendation was made for follow‐up with a doctor for a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan and/or pharmacotherapy. Patients at medium or high risk were also surveyed as to their intention to follow‐up with lifestyle modification recommendations. Results There was a significant improvement in tested awareness from pre‐ to post‐intervention at 26%; as well in self‐rated awareness. There was also a significant correlation between self‐rated and tested awareness. Participants indicated satisfaction with the pharmacist interaction and with their role in improving awareness. A large percentage of participants indicated that they intended to follow‐up with the pharmacist's recommendation for calcium intake, exercise and/or consulting with their doctor. Conclusion The results indicate that the community pharmacist can successfully screen individuals for risk of osteoporosis and improve their awareness about steps to prevent or delay fractures.