Community pharmacy-based implementation and evaluation of an osteoporosis self-assessment tool for Asians.
OBJECTIVE
To implement an osteoporosis screening and referral program in community pharmacies and evaluate the use of the Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool for Asians (OSTA) as the screening instrument.


METHODS
Uncontrolled study.


METHODS
Three community pharmacies in Bangkok, Thailand.


METHODS
51 women aged 50 years or older without prior diagnosis of osteoporosis; three community pharmacists; six hospital-based physicians.


METHODS
OSTA assessment by community pharmacists of the risks of osteoporosis in patients; counseling of patients about diet and exercise; referral of patients at high risk (OSTA index value less than -4) to hospitals where pharmacists had made arrangements in advance; and assessment of satisfaction and opinions of participating patients and physicians.


RESULTS
Of the 51 patients, 32 (62.7%) were categorized as low risk (OSTA index value > -1) and 19 (37.3%) as intermediate risk (OSTA index value range, -4 to -1). The majority of patients (97%) were satisfied with the program and the knowledge gained. Even though no high-risk patients were identified and referred for medical care, all six participating physicians agreed with having risk assessment service in community pharmacies and the prearranged referral system, and five of six physicians believed that OSTA results were valuable in the management of osteoporosis.


CONCLUSIONS
Community pharmacy-based osteoporosis risk assessment services using OSTA were well accepted by the patients and participating physicians. Public health benefits may result from the provision of osteoporosis risk screening services in community pharmacies in Thailand and other Asian countries.
Chaiyakunapruk
Nathorn
N
Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanuloak, Thailand. nui@u.washington.edu
Laowakul
Ampuscha
A
Karnchanarat
Saree
S
Pikulthong
Nisakorn
N
Ongphiphadhanakul
Boonsong
B
D003157:Community Pharmacy Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods* / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D016730:Program Development; D015397:Program Evaluation; D018570:Risk Assessment; D013785:Thailand