PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates announced that it has received 2021 Star Performer recognition from The American Orthopaedic Association's (AOA) Own the Bone program. 

 

The orthopaedic practice with locations in Pittsfield, North Adams and Great Barrington has received Star Performer recognition each year since 2016.

 

"Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates is proud to be part of this national effort to aid our patients who suffer from osteoporotic fractures," said Anthony DeFelice, DO, the surgeon who leads the program for the Berkshire practice. "It's critical that our patients receive the many support services we provide so they can get back to their active lifestyles."

 

Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates is one of over 275 healthcare institutions nationwide that has taken initiative to ensure its osteoporotic fracture patients receive the treatment and care that they deserve by implementing The American Orthopaedic Association's (AOA) Own the Bone program. 

 

The program is aimed to better identify, evaluate, and treat patients that suffer from an osteoporosis or low bone density-related fracture. The program brings attention to the severe health implications of fragility fractures (broken bones that result from a fall from standing height or less) and the multi-faceted approach hospitals or clinics can incorporate to ensure these patients receive the most comprehensive care.

 

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), 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.  Yet, 80 percent of Medicare patients do not receive recommended osteoporosis care following a fragility fracture.

 

Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates Leading the Way in Post-Fracture Care

Berkshire Orthopaedic Associates has participated in the Own the Bone program since 2009 and has to date had 1,463 cases. Star Performer designation is reserved only for institutions that have achieved a 75 percent compliance rate with at least 5 of the 10 Own the Bone prevention measures including: educating patients on the importance of Calcium and Vitamin D, physical activity, falls prevention, limiting alcohol intake and quitting smoking; recommending and initiating bone mineral density testing; discussing pharmacotherapy and treatment (when applicable); and providing written communication to the patient and their physician regarding specific risk factors and treatment recommendations.