P113 How has COVID-19 affected the treatment of osteoporosis? The answers from a global survey

Background/AimsThe COVID-19 pandemic has had profound effects on the health of theglobal population both directly, via the sequelae of the infection, andindirectly, including the relative neglect of chronic disease management. Together the International Osteoporosis Federation and NationalOsteoporosis Foundation sought to ascertain the impact on osteoporosis management.MethodsQuestionnaires were electronically circulated to a sample of membersof both learned bodies and included information regarding the locationand specialty of respondents, current extent of face to faceconsultations, alterations in osteoporosis risk assessment, telemedicine experience, alterations to medication ascertainment and delivery, and electronic health record (EHR) utilisation. Responses werecollected, quantitative data analysed, and qualitative data assessedfor recurring themes.ResultsResponses were received from 209 healthcare workers from 53countries, including 28% from Europe, 24% from North America, 19%from the Asia Pacific region, 17% from the Middle East, and 12% fromLatin America. Most respondents were physicians (85%) withphysician assistants, physical therapists and nurses/nurse practitioners represented in the sample. The main three specialtiesrepresented included rheumatology (40%), endocrinology (22%) andorthopaedics (15%).In terms of the type of patient contact, 33% ofrespondents conducted telephone consultations and 21% videoconsultations. Bone mineral density assessment by dual-energy xray absorptiometry (DXA) usage was affected with only 29% able toobtain a scan as recommended. The majority of clinicians (60%) hadsystems in place to identify patients receiving subcutaneous orintravenous medication, and 43% of clinicians reported difficulty inarranging appropriate osteoporosis medications during the COVID-19crisis.ConclusionTo conclude through surveying a global sample of osteoporosishealthcare professionals, we have observed an increase in telemedicine consultations, delays in DXA scanning, interrupted supply ofmedications and reductions in intravenous medication delivery.