University of Missouri Health Care has been recognized as the only health care system in Missouri to receive the American Orthopaedic Association’s 2025 Own the Bone Star Performer designation. This recognition is given to institutions that provide high-quality care for patients with fragility fractures and focus on bone health.
Osteoporosis is a condition that affects over 53 million people in the United States, but many cases remain undiagnosed or untreated until a fracture happens. Each year, nearly two million people experience fragility fractures, which can lead to loss of independence, increased risk of death, and higher health care costs.
The Star Performer status highlights MU Health Care’s efforts in treating osteoporotic fracture patients by participating in the Own the Bone quality improvement program. To achieve this recognition, organizations must reach at least 75% compliance with prevention measures such as educating patients, conducting bone density tests, discussing treatment options, and sharing care plans with both patients and physicians.
“Through our participation in Own the Bone and recognition as an Own the Bone Star Performer, we’ve demonstrated a commitment to helping patients understand their risk for future fractures and the steps they can take to prevent them,” said David Freeze, an MU Health Care nurse practitioner specializing in orthopaedics. “Protecting bones starts with simple steps that include getting enough calcium and vitamin D, staying active with weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise, and taking precautions at home to prevent falls.”
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