WVU Medicine recognized as Star Performer by American Orthopaedic Association Own the Bone® Program

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – WVU Medicine has been recognized by the American Orthopaedic Association Own the Bone^® Program as a 2019 Star Performer. The program is aimed at better identifying, evaluating, and treating patients who suffer from an osteoporosis or low bone density-related fracture. 

Own the Bone^® brings attention to the severe health implications of fragility fractures, which commonly result from minor falls.

“Patients who are prone to fragility fractures require additional care and support from our clinical staff,” Colleen Watkins, M.D., WVU Medicine orthopaedic specialist, said. “We are proud to be able to offer a multidisciplinary approach to ensure these patients receive comprehensive and safe care.”

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, up to 50 percent of all women and 25 percent of men over the age of 50 years will sustain a fragility fracture. Studies show that patients who have had a fragility fracture are two-to-four times more likely to experience another fracture than those who have never had a fracture.  

“We have implemented fall prevention programs that ensure patient safety during outpatient visits and inpatient stays,” Dr. Watkins said. “These programs have shown a significant decrease in injuries to both patients and staff.”

Own the Bone Star Performer designation is awarded to institutions that have achieved a 75 percent compliance rate with at least five of the 10 Own the Bone^® prevention measures.