C.O.P.E. (Community Osteoporosis Program with Education) provides consultation, prevention and treatment of osteoporosis and other metabolic bone diseases. The multidisciplinary C.O.P.E. team offers the only program of its kind in west Toronto. The team provides support, health promotion, and education having to do with the treatment and management of osteoporosis.

With a referral and DXA report from your family physician, an appointment will be made for you in the COPE Clinic.

Patients must be referred from the Emergency Department at St. Joseph's Health Centre, or by an inpatient department, an orthopaedic surgeon, a family physician in our catchment area, or other physician. Patients must meet one of the following criteria:

• Recent soft tissue injuries or acute inflammatory joint problem
• Any fracture requiring ongoing care regardless of timing of injury
• Back injuries if diagnosed as a fracture or nerve injury
• Patient less than three months of age with foot or hip deformity
• Flare-up of previous problem within three months of discharge from clinic
• Acute joint injuries, i.e. ankle and knee ligament injuries or hemarthrosis

If you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, treatment is recommended by the physician. Our registered nurse provides information and health teaching to assist in managing the disease. A report is sent to your family physician. A pharmacist and dietitian work with you to assist with your medications and diet. A physiotherapist provides strengthening exercises to improve your bones and muscles.

C.O.P.E. is located in The BMO Financial Group Ambulatory Care Centre, Ground Floor, Area E. For information, please call 416-530-6043.

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Page last updated: April 30, 2010