Annette Brooke MP pledges support to improve care for hip fracture patients and save local NHS £millions
December 18, 2007 12:00 AM
Local MP Annette Brooke has pledged her support for an innovative new programme which will dramatically improve the livelihood of people who suffer from hip fracture in Mid Dorset and North Poole.
Over 70,000 people suffer from a hip fracture every year in the UK - equivalent to over 100 people in Mid Dorset and North Poole - and this number is likely to double as the population ages. The cost to the NHS is a staggering £1.8bn.
Hip fracture is a preventable condition if warning signs are detected early enough and steps are taken to improve bone strength. The National Hip Fracture Database, a joint initiative between the British Geriatric Society and the British Orthopaedic Association.
Annette Brooke MP will be asking local NHS trusts to take part in the scheme and ensure that the best standards of care for constituents are met.
Commenting on the issue, Annette Brooke MP said: "Following my fall earlier this year when I fractured my femur, I received excellent treatment at Poole Hospital and had follow up tests for osteoporosis very promptly. Given the nature of my fall, my age, and the fact that I don't have osteoporosis, my fracture was not preventable. However, talking to members of this campaign it is clear that treatment across the country is very variable and hence I am proud to ask my local hospital to share their good practice."
"The National Hip Fracture Database is a vital measure in addressing the impact of hip fracture and I hope all local hospitals will take part in the scheme."
The quality of hip fracture care varies significantly across the UK. This is due to a 'postcode lottery' in the way care standards are implemented, and because there is no integrated monitoring and recording of hip fracture treatment and outcomes.
The National Hip Fracture Database will collect, analyse and disseminate data on the treatment of hip fracture in hospitals throughout the country to ensure the best standard of care and practice are being observed.
Professor David Marsh, an orthopaedic surgeon and Chair of the National Hip Fracture Database Executive, said: "There is overwhelming evidence that shows we can prevent patients suffering from hip fractures, yet the vast majority are not even being assessed. Hip fractures are threatening to overwhelm trauma and orthopaedic units, and it's vital that managers and clinicians know exactly how they are doing if they are to have any hope of providing a better service."
"We know what best practice is, and the National Hip Fracture Database will give everyone a chance to aim for it".
NOTE FROM ANNETTE - HER NEW YEAR RESOLUTION WILL BE NOT TO FALL OVER IN 2008!
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