The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) developed an evidence-based guideline on Osteoporosis which was published in May 2003 – SIGN 71: Management of Osteoporosis. The guideline was widely distributed to clinicians throughout Scotland and published on the SIGN website.

It was promoted through a press launch and the media in collaboration with the National Osteoporosis Society (NOS). However there were concerns that the recommendations made in the guideline might not be implemented without further awareness and support.

As a result, the Osteoporosis Guideline Initiative was established between SIGN, the NOS and the ABPI to assist in the implementation of the guideline. The aims of the initiative are to raise awareness of best practice in the management of osteoporosis as defined by the SIGN guideline and the NOS, and to encourage change in practice, where variation exists, to improve patient care.

A steering group was set up to define and co-ordinate the initiative and an industry Group under the ABPI was formed to support the initiative. Membership of the steering group and industry group can be found below. The Osteoporosis Guideline Initiative comprises three parts a National Conference followed by Regional Workshops and a Website.

A Scottish Osteoporosis Conference is being held at Dunblane Hydro on October 13th 2004. Following the multidisciplinary clinical conference there will be a series of Regional Workshops to support the local implementation of the guideline from October 2004 – April 2005

To support the National Conference and Regional Workshops this website has been established. This will promote communication and raise awareness to issues surrounding the management of Osteoporosis in Scotland and to encourage everyone to participate in improving the quality of care for patients.

Our grateful thanks to all who have contributed to this Osteoporosis Guideline Initiative.

We wish you well in your efforts to promote the implementation of the SIGN guideline.