Development of a multidisciplinary osteoporosis telehealth program

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and changes to bone structure. The optimal treatment requires both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment including adequate levels of calcium and vitamin D, exercise, and fall prevention. There is currently a shortage of family physicians and specialists in Ontario, which can result in patients not receiving optimal osteoporosis care. In 2005, a multidisciplinary osteoporosis telehealth program, based on an existing outpatient program, was developed at Women's College Hospital in conjunction with NORTH Network (now part of the Ontario Telemedicine Network). The objectives of this study were to determine the feasibility of delivering a multidisciplinary model of care through telehealth and to improve access to specialist care for osteoporosis investigation and management. Patients were referred by family physicians (n = 20). The average length of the consultations was 2 hours. Ninety-two percent of the participants would use it again and would also recommend it to family and friends, 90% increased their knowledge about osteoporosis, and 83% felt completely comfortable discussing their health problems during their consultation. The results demonstrate that it is feasible to deliver an existing outpatient multidisciplinary osteoporosis program via telehealth. In addition, the program increased access to osteoporosis care, for complex patients in particular, highlighting an unmet need in their communities.