MON-812 A Retrospective Analysis of the Utilization of the Fracture Liaison Service at an Academic Medical Center During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract Disclosure: S.S. Mohammed: None. B. Nguyen: None. R. Thomas: None. H. Johnson: None. S. Yanamala: None. F. Batrash: None. A. Yu: None. E.T. Ngo: None. S. Tadisina: None. B.M. Drees: None. Background: Osteoporosis affects over 10 million Americans and associated fragility hip fractures result in significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Secondary fracture prevention initiatives, such as Fracture Liaison Services (FLS), have proven effective in reducing recurrent fractures and healthcare costs. However, the sustainability of FLS, especially during global health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, remains uncertain. Objective: This study aimed to retrospectively examine the utilization of FLS during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the risk factors for osteoporosis in patients admitted with fragility hip fractures. Methods and Data Collection: A retrospective analysis of patients aged >50 years admitted for fragility hip fractures from 1/1/2020-6/30/2023 was conducted, using data from the Trauma Registry. Medical records were reviewed using the Electronic Medical Record system. Results: A total of 109 patients were diagnosed with fragility hip fractures. Mean age of 72 ± 11.8 years, with 62 females (56.9%) and 47 males (43.1%).108 patients (99.1%) had physical therapy (PT) consultations, and 81(74.3%) underwent fall risk assessments. 68 (62.4%) patients had abnormal vitamin D levels, 27(24.8%) had chronic kidney disease, 34 (31.2%) had abnormal TSH levels, and PTH levels were not checked in 87 (79.8%) of patients. Serum calcium was abnormal in 25 (22.9%) patients. Only 35(32.1%) patient received prescriptions for vitamin D or calcium on discharge, 7 patients (6.4%) were prescribed osteoporosis medications within 1 year of the fracture. DXA scans were ordered or completed in 9 patients (8.3%). Only 4 patients (3.7%) had follow-up with endocrinology, while 35 patients (32.1%) followed up with primary care. Conclusion: Our findings highlight the challenges of sustaining FLS, particularly during the COVID 19 pandemic. While the service was frequently utilized for initial PT and falls risk evaluation, subsequent interventions such as prescribing of osteoporosis medication and follow-up care were limited. These findings emphasize the need for ongoing adaptation and evaluation of FLS models to ensure effective osteoporosis management and fracture prevention. Discussion: This study reflects the efficacy of FLS in PT evaluation and falls risk assessment but reveals significant gaps in long term osteoporosis management. The low utilization of bone-modifying agents (6.4%) and low rates of DXA scan (8.3%) suggest deficiencies in comprehensive care. The study also highlights the prevalence of associated risk factors such as abnormal vitamin D levels. Given the projected increase in osteoporotic fractures globally, the sustainability of FLS in non-capitated health systems must be addressed to optimize osteoporosis management particularly during healthcare challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. Presentation: Monday, July 14, 2025