Horizon Health Network’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital

Brookfield Chair in Fracture Prevention Funds New Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) Program in Fredericton, NB

Did you know that approximately 80% of Canadians that suffer a fragility fracture are not started on appropriate osteoporosis treatment, to reduce the risk (or prevent) imminent severe hip fractures in this high-risk group? The Fredericton BreakFree Fracture Liaison Service (FLS) program is the first FLS funded in New Brunswick by Dr. Earl Bogoch in his role as the Brookfield Chair in Fracture Prevention, University of Toronto. The Brookfield Chair has the mandate to support the spread of new fracture prevention programs across Canada and is doing so with the addition of an FLS at Horizon Health Network’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital.

The BreakFree FLS in Fredericton is established to address the care gap in osteoporosis management. Supported jointly by Brookfield Chair in Fracture Prevention and the Department of Health in accordance with Osteoporosis Canada guidelines, this program is led by Leanne Eddington (FLS RN) and Dr. Leo Cruz (FLS Medical Director).

Horizon Health Network’s Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital

Photo: Horizon Health Network

In the FLS, Leanne identifies patients over 50 years of age presenting with fragility fractures of hip, wrist, shoulder, or pelvis. Leanne completes a detailed assessment, organizes appropriate investigations to determine fracture risk, identifies appropriate osteoporosis medications and connects to community partners as required.

The Fredericton BreakFree FLS is listed on Osteoporosis Canada’s FLS Registry.

The BreakFree FLS aligns with Horizon Health Network’s action priorities of access to services and improving the patient experience, by ensuring older adults with osteoporosis get the individualized support they need to decrease their risk of future fractures. Rachel Craig, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Surgical Program at Horizon Health Network played a key role in facilitating the partnership and in helping to bring FLS to Fredericton, NB.

The BreakFree FLS will reduce the care gap in osteoporosis, helping people reduce their risk of repeat fractures.