Pennine’s Fracture Liaison Service: Quietly Transforming Lives in Oldham
By Sarah Critchley, Pennine MSK Service Director
2 min read
At Pennine MSK Partnership, we’re proud of the comprehensive care we provide across Oldham. But some of the most impactful work happens behind the scenes. One such example is our Fracture Liaison Service (FLS), which is quietly changing lives and setting a new standard for bone health care in the region.
What is the Fracture Liaison Service?
FLS is a specialist service designed to identify people aged 50 and over who have experienced a fragility fracture – typically caused by low-impact trauma such as a fall from standing height, often linked to osteoporosis. Once identified, patients are invited for a bone health assessment. If they’re found to be at risk of further fractures, the team recommends treatments to strengthen bones and reduce future risk.
This proactive approach is essential. The Royal Osteoporosis Society has described FLS provision in England as a ‘postcode lottery’, with wide variation in access and quality. While the government aims for 100% coverage by 2030, Oldham is already ahead of the curve thanks to the dedication of our Pennine team.
A Service That’s Grown – and Delivered
In 2022, Pennine MSK, working with the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Board, invested in Oldham’s FLS by appointing two full-time specialists – a Nurse and a Pharmacist – solely focused on this work. Previously, FLS was delivered on an ad hoc basis within the Rheumatology Service.
The impact has been remarkable. In 2022, only 23% of fragility fractures were assessed. By 2025, that figure has risen to 92%. According to the Royal Osteoporosis Society, this increase has prevented 41 fragility fractures, including 16 hip fractures, saving £502,330 and freeing up 373 hospital bed days over two years. If this progress continues, we could prevent 255 fractures over five years – including 101 hip fractures – saving £3.1 million and releasing 2,343 bed days.
Who Are Pennine MSK?
Pennine MSK Partnership was established in 2006 and joined Vita Health Group in 2022. We deliver care across Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Persistent Pain for patients in Oldham, commissioned by the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Organisation.
Our team includes over 80 clinicians and 40 operational staff working across multiple community sites. We’re proud to offer a holistic, patient-centred pathway in partnership with NHS Oldham and our commissioners.
Our multidisciplinary team includes Rheumatology and Orthopaedic Consultants, Specialist Nurses, Physiotherapists, Psychologists, Pharmacists, Occupational Therapists and more – all working together to deliver outstanding care.
A Quiet Success Worth Celebrating
The success of the Fracture Liaison Service is a powerful example of what happens when clinical expertise, investment and patient-centred care come together. It reflects Pennine MSK’s commitment to improving lives, not just treating conditions.
We’re proud of the difference we’re making. Every fracture prevented is a life changed.
Sarah Critchley, Lead Director and Rheumatology Specialist Nurse
