Osteoporosis Management in Women (OMW): A HEDIS Focus

The Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) Osteoporosis Management in Women (OMW) measure tracks the percentage of women, aged 67–85 and covered by a Medicare plan, who have experienced a fracture and subsequently received appropriate follow-up care.

What constitutes appropriate follow-up within 180 days (6 months) of a fracture?

Patients must have EITHER:

• A bone mineral density (BMD) test (DEXA scan)
• A prescription for an osteoporosis-specific medication

Tips for OMW Improvement:

• Timely DEXA Scans: Ensure your patients receive a follow-up DEXA scan within 180 days of a fracture. Either the primary care provider or an endocrinologist can order the DEXA scan.
• Proactive Prescribing: Provide a BMD prescription promptly after a fracture diagnosis and strongly encourage patients to complete the screening.
• Patient Follow-up: Track completion of BMD screenings and discuss results with patients at their subsequent visits.
• Medication Adherence: Ensure the prescribed medication is dispensed and received by the patient from the pharmacy. Common treatment options can include:
  • Denosumab
  • Ibandronate
  • Zoledronic acid
  • Teriparatide
  • Romosozumab
• Screen for Falls and Fractures: Routinely inquire about falls or new fractures during patient appointments.
• Assess Risk Factors: Systematically evaluate women for osteoporosis risk factors, including:
  • Low body weight
  • Excessive alcohol intake
  • Current tobacco use
  • History of previous fractures
  • Use of medications that can impact bone health (e.g., corticosteroids)
• Develop a Fracture Care Pathway: Implement a standardized process within your practice to identify patients with new fractures and ensure they receive timely BMD screening and, if indicated, osteoporosis medication.
• Educate and Empower Patients: Discuss the importance of bone health, fracture prevention, and adherence to screening and treatment plans with your patients.

Adhering to the HEDIS OMW measure not only contributes to quality care metrics but, more importantly, ensures that our female Medicare beneficiaries receive the necessary interventions to prevent future fractures and improve their quality of life.