Mrs. Michelle Yang is 65 years old and has just been diagnosed with osteoporosis after a fall that resulted in a trip to the ER and a broken foot. You are a physician's assistant in the office of her primary care physician.

While at the ER, a bone density scan was performed, and a cast was placed on her foot.The orders from the ER were to meet with her doctor for further care.

You are a physician's assistant and have been tasked with sending Mrs. Yang a follow-up letter explaining her diagnosis, treatment plan, and outlook for recovery.

Before you write the letter, you will want to get your notes in order so that you can cover all the important points with her.

Use the Case Study Template for both Part 1 and Part 2.

PART 1: NOTES

1. Explain what osteoporosis is.

1. What system of the body is affected?

1. What is happening at a cellular level to cause osteoporosis? Be specific as to which types of cells and tissues are involved.

1. What can happen if osteoporosis is left untreated? How will it impact Mrs. Yang's overall health?

PART 2: PATIENT LETTER

You will now write the letter to the patient to explain her diagnosis and treatment plan. Be sure to explain everything in terms that a non-medical person can understand. You will also want to be supportive of her and allay any fears she may have with this diagnosis.

You will address the following:

• Her diagnosis.
• Her test results.
• What treatment options are available.
• Her outlook for recovery.
• What risk factors may have increased her chances of osteoporosis.
• How you will allay her fears and/or concerns about her health.