Policy and Legislative Support

To effectively address the growing burden of osteoporosis and fragility fractures, comprehensive policy and legislative support is needed. Implementing a life-course approach to bone health in New Zealand requires coordination across multiple government departments and Crown entities, beyond just the Accident Compensation Corporation, Health NZ-Te Whatu Ora, Ministry of Health, and Pharmac.

A unified government commitment to bone health is essential to reduce the burden of fragility fractures.

The Ministry of Education and Sport NZ can play a key role in initiatives to ensure that all children and adolescents achieve their genetic potential for peak bone mass. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development must prioritise age-friendly environments, enhancing the impact of Age Friendly Aotearoa New Zealand under the Office for Seniors.

The economic implications of poor bone health – including lost productivity and financial strain – demand recognition from the Minister of Finance. A coordinated, if not comprehensive, government response is essential to implement a life-course approach to bone health.

Additionally, establishing an All-Party Parliamentary Group on Bone Health would ensure that initiatives like the Live Stronger for Longer Programme receive the necessary legislative and policy support to make a lasting impact on the nation’s bone health. This group could serve as a critical driver for national strategies aimed at reducing the burden of osteoporosis and fragility fractures across New Zealand.

To secure the future of New Zealand’s healthcare system, a unified government commitment to bone health is essential, ensuring osteoporosis and fragility fractures are addressed with the urgency and coordination they demand.