Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has backed the Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS) and Sunday Express campaign for better care for osteoporosis patients in Scotland, and across the UK.
This is to ensure everyone over 50 is covered by a high-quality Fracture Liaison Service, so their first fracture is the last.
Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) - which were invented in Glasgow and subsequently copied across 54 countries - systematically identify, assess and treat anyone who breaks a bone after age 50.
FLS is the world standard for diagnosing people with osteoporosis early, so they can get access to bone-strengthening therapies after their first broken bone, which is often a less serious fracture, such as the wrist. Early diagnosis through an FLS puts people in an excellent position to prevent hip fractures later in life, as anti-osteoporosis therapies are highly effective.
However, Scottish clinicians have highlighted serious gaps in coverage and performance of FLS, due to the absence of a clear directive from the Scottish Government that everyone over 50 should be covered by a quality FLS. This has left 180,000 Scots with undiagnosed spinal fractures, which are red flags for a future hip fracture (a heart-attack level event). With an early diagnosis, people with osteoporosis can access safe, effective therapies, which are highly affordable for the Scottish NHS.
That is why Mr Halcro Johnston is supporting the ROS and Sunday Express’ Better Bones campaign that calls on the Scottish Government to ensure that everyone aged 50 and over in Scotland has access to a quality-assured FLS.
Mr Halcro Johnston said:
"Unfortunately, it isn't a surprise to see Scotland falling behind once again when it comes to health and social care.
"180,000 Scots are living with undiagnosed spinal fractures and face the risk of a devastating future hip fracture. It is crucial that we address this alarming situation by mandating high-quality Fracture Liaison Services in all areas of Scotland.
"By mandating high-quality Fracture Liaison Services for all areas, we can ensure that every Scottish citizen over 50 receives the care and support they need. We owe it to our constituents to provide them with the best possible healthcare and protect them from the devastating consequences of undiagnosed fractures.
"The Better Bones campaign offers a clear solution to this pressing issue. I fully support this initiative and urge the Scottish Government to do the same. No one should be left behind in accessing crucial fracture diagnosis and prevention services.
"Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of hardworking health and care workers, too many still are.
Craig Jones, Chief Executive at the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said:
“Fracture Liaison Services were a Scottish gift to the world. They were invented in Glasgow and have been exported to over 50 countries, but sadly Scotland has now fallen behind. This has left 180,000 Scots with undiagnosed spinal fractures and at risk of a devastating future hip fracture.
"We’re calling on the Scottish Government to mandate high-quality Fracture Liaison Services for all areas and to make sure everyone has access to a high-quality version of this great Scottish medical innovation.”
