Improving patients’ experiences of diagnosis and treatment of vertebral fracture: co-production of knowledge sharing resources

Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing fracture risk. Vertebral fractures, common in osteoporosis, often go undiagnosed. This study created resources for healthcare professionals and patients to improve diagnosis and treatment access. The study involved interviews and workshops to identify barriers to diagnosis and develop recommendations. Knowledge sharing resources were co-produced to aid timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment. The resources aim to increase awareness of vertebral fractures and improve management. Dissemination of these resources to various stakeholders can significantly improve patient care.

• 1
  Lack of patient information, prioritization of other conditions, and self-management hinder diagnosis. Healthcare professionals struggle to identify vertebral fractures in lower-risk groups, mistaking them for other conditions.
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  Communication gaps between primary and secondary care delay diagnosis and treatment. Recommendations include guidance for healthcare professionals and information for patients.
• 3
  Co-produced resources focused on areas stakeholders found beneficial. These resources were developed to aid timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.