Fracture Liaison Services

Baroness Nargund Excerpts

Tuesday 13th October 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

I do not accept the analysis on rolling back—we are going forward compared with where we started. I understand the frustration, which we all share; however, my officials are progressing policy options, including the upcoming frailty and dementia modern service framework, through which we can set local targets for ICBs, for example. We will be led by evidence on that, because we want to improve health and care for what is, as the noble Baroness says, a very important cohort.

[Baroness Nargund (Lab)]

My Lords, I thank my noble friend the Minister for including support for women with osteoporosis in the Renewed Women’s Health Strategy for England. What plans are in place to ensure that the ICBs will give women equal access to fracture liaison services, so that we can prevent further fractures?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

While many areas have made good progress, there is still variation in service provision and issues with patient access. That is why we are improving identification, assessment and treatment of people at risk of fragility fractures. On the point about women, in the last four years two new drugs have been recommended by NICE for the treatment of osteoporosis; they will help to strengthen the bones and prevent bone loss. This, NICE publishing, updated guidance and the other measures we are taking will improve fracture liaison services, including prevention.