Today, Novu announced the latest in a series of programs meant to close gaps in care for the Medicare population: The Osteoporosis Program. It’s estimated that nearly 60% of U.S. adults age 50 or older are at risk of breaking a bone due to osteoporosis, costing the health care system $19 billion annually according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
The threat of osteoporosis is two-fold: 1) the growing senior populations means that experts predict the cost to rise to $25.3 billion from an estimated three million fractures, and 2) osteoporosis is referred to as a “silent disease,” since it often goes undetected until after a break of fracture has resulted. For seniors, these injuries can also lead to long recovery periods, increasing costs for caregivers and families.
Osteoporosis is preventable and manageable, however, and Novu’s new program was designed for any member wishing to improve the health of their bones, whether or not they have received a diagnosis. Because there is currently no cure for the bone disease, the daily steps program focuses on lifestyle changes such as nutrition, exercise, posture and relaxation techniques that help members improve their bone health and prevent further loss of bone mass.
Novu invites you to help spread the word about the risks and costs associated with osteoporosis by participating in National Osteoporosis Month this May. Learn more at the National Osteoporosis Foundation’s website or by watching this video.