Evidence for a Problem Worth Solving To Improve BMD Referral Rates in NHG Yishun Polyclinic Teamlet F
Care Process & Redesign
National Healthcare Group Quality Improvement
National Healthcare Group
24 December 2025
To improve the Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test screening referral rate from 5.60% to 100% for women aged 55 years old and. By improving early screening rates, the project potentially reduces long-term healthcare costs associated with osteoporosis.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 24 December 2025
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Quality Improvement, Workflow Redesign, Cost Saving, Productivity, Referral Rate, Access To Care
About this Content
Aims
To improve the Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test screening referral rate from 5.60% to 100% for women aged 55 years old and older, who are on regular follow-up with Yishun Polyclinic Teamlet F and deemed high risk for osteoporosis by OSTA score, over a 6-month period from July 2024 to December 2024.
Background
Osteoporosis, characterized by increased bone fragility and fracture risk, predisposes individuals to medical complications, financial costs, and social consequences. Singapore has the highest reported incidence of hip fractures within Asia, with a significant increase since the 1960s. BMD screening allows for early detection and treatment of high-risk patients, with studies supporting its cost-effectiveness.
Methods
Interventions included distributing osteoporosis brochures, digitalizing patient screening questionnaires, and introducing reminders in consultation rooms. The project followed a PDSA cycle for implementation.
Results
The project aimed to increase BMD referral rates, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs associated with osteoporosis complications.
Conclusion
By improving early screening rates, the project potentially reduces long-term healthcare costs associated with osteoporosis complications, such as fractures and hospitalizations.
Lessons Learnt
Challenges included limited awareness of osteoporosis, high cognitive load during consultations, and the need for innovative reminder systems to reinforce the importance of screening.
Keywords
Osteoporosis, BMD, Screening, Referral, Cost Saving
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Yishun Polyclinic |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Group Quality Improvement |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Orthopaedics |
Project Lead(s) | Felix Tan Keng Zhe |
Project Member(s) | Edwin Liang Fueng Chee |
Connect with this contributor!
Group Quality - nhggroup.QRM@nhghealth.com.sg
Project Attachment
966_NHGP_2025_QI_Award_To_Improve_BMD_Referral_Rates_in_NHG_Yishun_Polyclinic_Teamlet_F.pdf