Background. Research has revealed that there is a consistent underutilization of treatment of osteoporosis especially after fragility fractures. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the application of the FRAX™ tool as a strategy to improve the assessment and treatment of osteoporosis in primary care.

Objectives. The primary outcome was to improve primary care provider recognition and treatment of osteoporosis through the use of the FRAX™ tool. Secondary outcomes were to increase provider adherence to clinical practice guidelines on osteoporosis.

Design. Primary care providers attended one educational session. Pre- and post-test assessed knowledge. Charts were audited for provider adherence to clinical practice guidelines on osteoporosis through the use of the FRAX™ tool on appropriate patients.

Subjects. Four primary care physicians participated in the project. Charts were audited for 131 patients who were aged 50 years old and older and treatment naïve.

Results. The four physicians attended and completed an educational intervention on osteoporosis and use of the FRAX™ tool. The physicians completed an adapted version of the Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Test (OKAT) pre-and post- educational intervention. Mean scores for the posttest were significantly higher (81) than pretest (63), p<0.05. Charts were audited for 132 patients who had been assessed using the FRAX™ tool. Post intervention frequency for ordering DXA for at risk patients was 82%. There was a statistically significant increase in DXAs ordered post-intervention, p=0.007.

Recommendations. The results of this study indicate that an educational intervention about osteoporosis and use of the FRAX™ tool to assess for risk of fracture does improve physician adherence to clinical practice guidelines for osteoporosis. Adoption of the change is facilitated through easy access and interpretation with the FRAX™ tool. Communication from the nursing staff is also necessary for continued adherence by the primary care providers.