A new service has recently been launched by NHS Forth Valley for people living with Osteoporosis.

It provides bone density (DXA) scans locally, face to face and telephone appointments, medication reviews and treatments. Education sessions, by both email and phone, are also planned.

Osteoporosis is a health condition that weakens bones, making them fragile and more likely to break. It develops slowly over several years and is often only diagnosed when a fall or sudden impact causes a bone to break (fracture). It affects more than 3 million people in the UK.

Kris Robertson, Operational Manager for Neurology, Rheumatology, Osteoporosis, and the Fracture Liaison Service said:

“It has been an amazing privilege to get this off the ground; the people of Forth Valley have been looking for this service for a while now and I am so happy to announce that we have listened and delivered.

“We have taken our time to get the right people into post so not only do we have an Osteoporosis service, but we have one that we can be proud of, led by a very enthusiastic team of specialists.”

The service is staffed by a Consultant, Specialist Nurse, a Fracture Liaison team, supported by radiology and a specialist pharmacist.

The clinics run 4 times per week, with around 6 patients being reviewed in each clinic. GPs can refer patients directly for a DXA scan, as well to the new clinics.

For further information, please visit the dedicated NHS Fracture Liaison page.