Grant: Undergraduate: Mobility, musculoskeletal health and arthritis - ICS

Osteoporosis is a growing public health concern in our aging population. Although effective medications are available for reducing the risk of broken bones, many patients are not taking them as directed or they stop taking their osteoporosis medication. The Arthritis Program (TAP) at Southlake Regional Health Centre is an award-winning model of care that provides assessment, treatment and education to patients with rheumatic diseases. It has been providing a comprehensive education program for those living with osteoporosis since 2006. This program aims to increase patients' knowledge and confidence in managing the disease. Patients receive consultation and follow-up care in a clinic with a rheumatologist, a pharmacist, and a kinesiologist. TAP patients are also invited to attend a one-day education workshop which covers topics such as medications, Calcium and Vitamin D, nutrition, falls prevention, and exercise. The proposed study will measure compliance with osteoporosis medication in those patients who attend the Program. A comparison will be made to similar patient groups who did not attend the program.