44 BONE HEALTH AND FRACTURE RISK: KNOWLEDGE, OPINION AND PRACTICE OF PHYSIOTHERAPISTS

Abstract Background Osteoporotic-related fractures are responsible for excess mortality, morbidity, chronic pain, reduction in quality of life, admission to long-term care and health social costs (Papaioannou et al, 2010). Evidence using Fracture Risk Assessment Tool (FRAX®) based community-screening older people is increasing (Kanis 2020). There no published evidence on the use FRAX® by Physiotherapists. Methods A questionnaire was sent South Eastern Branch members Irish Society Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP). Survey themes were: participant characteristics, knowledge opinion areas Bone Health Risk. Responses were downloaded from Monkey analysed descriptive statistics. Results The response rate 27% (n = 56). 72% 40) those surveyed had at least 10 years clinical experience. For 65% 37) participants, made up more than half their caseload. 96% 54) participants treated with frailty other bone risk factors; falls (93%), osteoporosis (89%), fracture or reduced mobility (87%). On a scale 1–10 (1 confident, most confident) 49% respondents rated confidence prescribing Physiotherapy interventions ≤5. When interpreting results DEXA scan; 80% reported be Half (49%) never heard FRAX®. 95% felt under addressed practice. All it within professional responsibility discuss patients. Conclusion This first evaluation knowledge, practice physiotherapists. need DEXA, highlighted. may improve assessment patients attending Physiotherapy. Based these results, has been introduced into Rehabilitation Unit as part Quality Improvement Project.