Fracture capture programs have been successfully implemented in tertiary care settings, but are lacking in primary care, where a large proportion of people who have fractures are managed. A rational approach to improving fracture prevention outcomes in the community would be to adapt the successful hospital-based model of care for primary care.  However, no such model has been piloted in primary care in a Victorian setting. This study comprises two stages. Stage 1 will develop, implement and evaluate an interactive, online e-learning hub for osteoporosis care skills and knowledge, which utilises GPs’ own patients as the basis for its educational activities. Furthermore, this stage will establish optimal design considerations for sustained learning and knowledge-sharing practices in an online environment. Stage 2 will focus on a wider roll-out of the e-learning hub and implementation of fracture capture models for primary care.

In the first stage, up to 20 GPs will be recruited into a 12 week online educational program. Case studies will be provided by participants for weekly GP-moderated discussions with bone health expert guidance. Participants also will be given access to quality online learning resources. Participants will be interviewed and undertake knowledge tests before and after completing the program. Qualitative data from the interviews will be analysed to identify important design considerations for the site. Effective knowledge change will be assessed from pre- and post-tests. Extensive quantitative data also will be collected via the hub platform to quantify participant engagement with the site.

Stage 1 will be completed during 2017. It is hoped that pertinent design considerations will be identified and implemented to optimise the usability and effectiveness of the learning hub before a wider roll out, with the ultimate goal of increasing GPs’ knowledge, awareness and active engagement in bone healthcare.