Campaigners Hail Pledge on Life-Saving Osteoporosis Services

Campaigners have welcomed a commitment from the new Health Secretary, Yvette Cooper, to investigate the delayed rollout of crucial osteoporosis services. Despite a previous Labour pledge for universal access to services that check for the bone disease after a first fracture, significant concerns remain about the lack of progress in establishing these fracture liaison services (FLS).

Osteoporosis affects over 500,000 people annually in the UK, costing the NHS over £4.5 billion. Volunteers have pressed ministers for a national delivery plan, with one health minister acknowledging the need to investigate the delays. Corinne Turnbull shared her experience, emphasizing that women's healthcare needs persist with age, and universal FLS are crucial for older women's independence.

Ruth Wakeman of the Royal Osteoporosis Society highlighted that patients have waited over two years for these services. Universal access is projected to prevent 74,000 fractures, save the NHS £665 million, and free up substantial hospital bed days within five years. The Department of Health and Social Care stated their 10-year plan commits to rolling out FLS by 2030 and is investing in new DEXA scanners for earlier diagnosis.