Tahoe Forest Health System (TFHS) is proud to announce they have received an Own the Bone Star Performer designation for the 2020 year, an achievement reserved for institutions that perform the highest level of fragility fracture and bone health care.

Tahoe Forest Health System achieved an exceptional compliance rate on the 10 prevention measures outlined by the American Orthopaedic Association (AOA), including educating patients on the importance of calcium and vitamin D, physical activity, fall prevention, limiting alcohol intake, and quitting smoking; recommending and initiating bone mineral density testing; discussing pharmacotherapy and treatment (when applicable); and providing written communication to patients and their physicians regarding specific risk factors and treatment recommendations.

Through participation in AOA’s Own the Bone program as well as recognition as an Own the Bone Star Performer, Tahoe Forest Health System has demonstrated a commitment to helping patients understand their risk for future fractures and the steps they can take to prevent them.

“We work hard to both educate patients and to keep our patients safe,” says Harry Weis, chief executive officer of TFHS. “We are grateful for the recognition of our exceptional orthopedic team and program, and we thank our community for continuing to trust us with their health and well-being.”

What can patients do to protect their bones?

  • Get adequate calcium and vitamin D, either through diet or supplements, if necessary.
  • Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise.
  • Prevent falls around the home and be careful of stairs, railings, clutter, etc.
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to 2 – 3 drinks per day.

Have you or a loved one had a broken bone over age 50? Talk to your healthcare provider and get a bone density screening to determine if osteoporosis might be the cause and learn additional steps you might need to take to prevent future fractures.

For more information about Tahoe Forest Health System’s orthopedic program and treatment options, please visit Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine or contact the Orthopedics & Sports Medicine clinic at (530) 587-7461.