A Systematic Review of Healthcare Professional-Led Education for Patients With Osteoporosis or Those at High Risk for the Disease

BACKGROUND: The effect of healthcare professional-led education for patients with osteoporosis or those at high risk for the disease on adherence with treatment recommendations was investigated. METHODS: Eight databases were searched using multiple key words, and combinations of key words, to find the highest level of evidence available. Four randomized controlled trials, 2 quasi-experimental trials, and 3 descriptive longitudinal comparative studies were identified and assessed. FINDINGS: Eight of the 9 studies showed improved adherence with treatment recommendations for patients with osteoporosis or those at high risk for the disease after the healthcare professional-led educational intervention. A professional nurse may be in the best position to lead this type of education, with 6 of the 9 studies using nurses as educators.