The National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD) is a comprehensive registry that collects data on hip fractures in the United Kingdom. Established in 2007, the NHFD aims to improve the care and outcomes of patients with hip fractures by providing a national snapshot of current practice and identifying areas for improvement. The database is managed by the Royal College of Physicians and is funded by the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership. With over 150,000 cases recorded annually, the NHFD is one of the largest and most comprehensive hip fracture registries in the world.
Background and Objectives
The NHFD was established in response to concerns about the quality of care provided to patients with hip fractures in the UK. Hip fractures are a significant public health problem, with over 70,000 cases occurring annually in England and Wales alone. The cost of hip fractures to the National Health Service (NHS) is estimated to be over £2 billion per year. The NHFD aims to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with hip fractures by improving the quality of care provided to patients. The database collects data on patient demographics, fracture characteristics, treatment, and outcomes, including mortality, complications, and readmission rates.
Data Collection and Analysis
The NHFD collects data from over 180 hospitals in the UK, using a standardized data collection tool. The data is then analyzed and reported annually, providing a comprehensive overview of hip fracture care in the UK. The database includes information on patient characteristics, such as age, sex, and comorbidities, as well as details about the fracture, including type, location, and treatment. The NHFD also collects data on outcomes, including length of stay, mortality, and readmission rates.
| Year | Number of Cases | Mortality Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-2020 | 151,445 | 6.4% |
| 2018-2019 | 148,435 | 6.6% |
| 2017-2018 | 145,561 | 6.8% |
Impact and Implications
The NHFD has had a significant impact on the care and outcomes of patients with hip fractures in the UK. The database has identified areas for improvement, including delays in surgery, inadequate pain management, and poor rehabilitation services. The NHFD has also highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary team working, including orthogeriatricians, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, in improving outcomes for patients with hip fractures.
Future Directions
The NHFD is continuing to evolve and improve, with plans to expand the database to include additional data elements, such as patient-reported outcomes and health-related quality of life. The database will also be used to develop and evaluate quality improvement initiatives, including care bundles and clinical guidelines. The NHFD has the potential to inform health policy and service development, ensuring that patients with hip fractures receive high-quality, evidence-based care.
What is the purpose of the National Hip Fracture Database?
+The purpose of the NHFD is to improve the care and outcomes of patients with hip fractures in the UK by providing a national snapshot of current practice and identifying areas for improvement.
What types of data are collected by the NHFD?
+The NHFD collects data on patient demographics, fracture characteristics, treatment, and outcomes, including mortality, complications, and readmission rates.
How has the NHFD impacted the care of patients with hip fractures in the UK?
+The NHFD has identified areas for improvement and highlighted the importance of standardized care pathways and multidisciplinary team working, leading to improved outcomes for patients with hip fractures.
