Osteoporosis risk assessment by family practice faculty and residents: a chart review.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the frequency of osteoporosis risk assessment of postmenopausal women by family practice faculty and residents.

METHODS

Review of 263 charts of women over 50 from 3 residency clinics. Charts were evaluated for evidence of osteoporosis risk assessments or discussion of prevention strategies during the past 2 years.

RESULTS

Overall, 35% of the charts contained documentation of some discussion of osteoporosis. Female physicians discussed osteoporosis more than their male colleagues (p < 0.05). Documentation of osteoporosis discussions decreased as women aged (p < 0.05). There was no difference in rates among clinics or between residents and faculty.

CONCLUSIONS

The documentation of osteoporosis discussions with high risk women was low in this sample. Strategies to improve osteoporosis screening are necessary.