The HIPCARE Study

Older patients are particularly likely to break a bone (fracture) because of a fall from a standing height, as their bones are weakened by osteoporosis. These fragility fractures have serious consequences and outcomes may be even worse in settings with limited healthcare resources. Asia is particularly affected by rapidly ageing populations with many more hip fractures expected in the next decade along with increasing associated healthcare costs. Improving care for patients with hip fracture is therefore a priority in this region.

Looking after patients following a hip fracture requires healthcare workers from many different backgrounds to work together. These multidisciplinary teams include surgeons, doctors specialising in looking after older patients, nurses and therapists, each with defined roles and responsibilities. In the UK, this team approach has reduced the number of patients dying and improved quality-of-life after hip fracture. It also reduced time spent in hospital and associated healthcare costs.

The project management group manages the HIPCARE trial, including the clinical and practical aspects. We have representatives from each collaborating partner, including clinicians, patient representatives, statisticians, health economists, information specialists and qualitative researchers.