AMDA Foundation - Osteoporosis Study Suggests Gaps between Physician and Patient Attitudes

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Vol XVII, Aug `05

Osteoporosis Study Suggests Gaps between Physician and Patient Attitudes

Vol XVII, Aug `05

A recent national survey from the Alliance for Aging Research shows that physicians and patients often have different beliefs and attitudes about osteoporosis treatment and compliance. The majority of women with osteoporosis surveyed (57%) said that desire to stay healthy and independent motivates them to take medication to treat the condition. However, most physicians (75%) believe the fear of fractures is the treatment motivator for patients. The Alliance sought input from 752 postmenopausal women and 352 physicians to address their attitudes and beliefs about protecting bone health. A key part of protecting bones with osteoporosis is taking medication, yet 70% of physicians think that poor compliance over time is a problem in their practice.

Other pertinent survey results include:

Almost half (47%) of women went off their osteoporosis medication because other diseases or conditions they have are more important for them than treating their osteoporosis
Nearly 70% of women went off bisphosphonate therapy because of side effects (e.g., gastrointestinal discomfort). Physicians identified side effects as a key reason patients discontinued therapy, but they also cited taking too many pills, lack of perceived treatment benefit, and inconvenient dosing regimens as other barriers to adherence.
More than half (56%) of physicians admitted that they do not speak with osteoporosis patients about their condition at each visit; 62% of patients agree.

"It's clear that better physician-patient communication is needed since doctors aren't tapping into the emotional catalysts that drive women to protect their bones and, by extension, their independence," said Alliance Executive Director Daniel Perry.

This issue presents a prime opportunity for small studies in long term care settings, including assisted living facilities and continuing care retirement communities, about practitioner and patient attitudes about osteoporosis.

To help improve physician-patient communication on this issue, the Alliance has developed a free discussion guide that provides tips and advice to facilitate better understanding of osteoporosis risks, prevention, and treatment. To receive the guide, go to www.agingresearch.org.