Published on 12th June 2024, the National Hip Fracture Database (NHFD): Annual Report 2024 provides an important look into hip fracture care across the UK. Based on data from over 75,000 cases in 2023, the report highlights both progress and ongoing challenges in improving outcomes for older patients.
Hip fracture continues to be the leading cause of emergency surgery admissions in older people, with more than 200 cases a day. December 2023 saw a particularly high number of fractures over 7,300 which is above the monthly average of around 6,200, reflecting increased seasonal risks and the pressures on already stretched services.
Frailty remains a significant factor, with around half of hip fracture patients living with frailty at the time of their injury. Encouragingly, the report notes improvements in early geriatrician involvement, which is vital for supporting recovery and reducing complications. As the report states:
“Patients have the best chance of recovery if they are cared for on a ward where a hip fracture team can work together, rather than separately.”
Key recommendations
NHS England and Welsh Government should use NHFD data to monitor hospitals’ delivery of three key stages of care:
- To ensure that hospitals are ready for the people they know will present each day, so patients receive each step of their care at the right place at the right time.
- To ensure that all hospitals provide both prompt surgery and optimal peri-operative care so patients can start getting back on their feet as soon as possible.
- To ensure rehabilitation and recovery is planned and started early, and continues beyond the hospital with measures to prevent another fracture.
Preventing further fractures also remains a key focus, as one in four patients will sustain another major fragility fracture within five years of their first, many within the first 18 months.
Read the full report here
Featured Event: Hip Fracture Summit 2025
Thursday 10th July 2025
Virtual CPD Conference
This essential conference will focus on how services can build on the NHFD 2024 findings to strengthen hip fracture care, meet national standards, and deliver better outcomes for patients.
