DEXA Scan

State-of-the-art full body composition scan, accurately measuring body fat, muscle mass and bone density.

A DEXA scan is a low-dose X-ray that provides detailed information about either your Bone Density, or Total Body Composition, in a quick, non-invasive scan. You are welcome to bring someone with you into the treatment room during your DEXA scan, provided they are not pregnant.

To have a DEXA scan at WLC Medical you don’t need to have a GP referral. However, we do accept referrals completed by GPs addressed to either our clinic or other clinics, after which we are happy to provide results to your treating GP with your consent. Simply bring the referral with you at the time of the appointment.

At WLC Medical, we aim to provide a personal, unrushed experience, taking the time to ensure you understand your results and how they relate to your health goals.

To help you feel comfortable and prepared for your DEXA scan with us at WLC Medical, we’ve outlined what to expect below and the differences in the scans.

What is the difference between a Bone Density Scan and a Total Body Composition Scan? 

  • Bone Densitometry (Bone Density) Scan – Is a scan that measures the strength of your bones to help assess fracture risk and bone health.
  • Total Body Composition Scan – Measures muscle mass, fat mass, and bone mass, to give a detailed picture of your overall body composition.

What to expect  

  • You’ll be lying comfortably on a padded scanning table and asked to remain still for a short period, usually around 10–15min, as the DEXA machine completes its full body scan.

What to wear

  • Comfortable clothing is best. Clothing made from cotton or common gym fabrics such as polyester, nylon, or elastane (e.g. t-shirt, shorts, leggings, crop top) is ideal.
  • Please do not wear clothing with metal (e.g. zips, buttons, belts, or bra underwire), as metal can create a shadow on the scan and affect image quality. If required, we can provide a private space for you to change on arrival.
  • You may also be asked to remove shoes, jewellery, or metal items before the scan.

Results and discussion

  • Your results are discussed with you during your appointment. However, if you have been referred by your GP, it is recommended that you also make a follow up appointment with your GP to discuss the results further.
  • We will also email your results to you, as well as to your treating GP with your consent, within 7 business days.

Please note that if you have chosen our DEXA Sports Package (Body Composition Scan and Metabolic Testing) with one of our dietitians, the dietetics consultation on the day is limited to discussing the results of your scans and ECAL test.

Due to the volume and detail of information collected, this appointment does not include comprehensive dietetic advice.

If you are a new patient seeking detailed dietary advice (e.g. weight management or nutrition planning), we recommend booking an initial 1‑hour consultation with a dietitian. This appointment can be scheduled either before your Body Composition Scan or at a later time that suits you, and will help optimise your results and ongoing care.

If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our admin team, either by email admin@wlcmedical.com.au or phone (08) 6263 7778.

FAQ's

DEXA Scan Pricing Options

Bone Densitometry or Body Composition is $175 within a 30min consult.
Bone Densitometry and Body Composition are $225 within a 30min consult.
Both DEXA scans followed by an additional 30min consult with either an Allied Health (Physio or Dietitian) – Total of 60mins is $275

Please note:
– DEXA scans performed on their own during a 30min consult are not currently eligible for private health rebates.
– Private health rebates are available when a DEXA scan is combined with an Allied Health (Physio or Dietitian) consult during a 60min appointment, allowing time for more detailed interpretation, treatment, health advice and personalised recommendations.

Can I have a Body Composition Analysis, Bone Density Scan and Metabolic Testing in one appointment with a Dietitian?

What is a DEXA Sport Package?

Can I have a DEXA scan if I have a pacemaker or other implants?

How often can I have a DEXA Bone Density scan?

How frequently should I repeat a DEXA Body Composition Scan?

What is the cost of a DEXA Scan without a referral?

Does your machine deliver the same results/images as a radiology company?

Are results, good and bad discussed with me and possible options moving forward, as they would be with my GP?