How often can I have a DEXA scan?
The recommended timing of repeat DEXA scans depends on the type of scan and why you are having it.
For a Total Body Composition DEXA scan, repeating the assessment every 3 to 6 months may be appropriate if you are actively making changes to your nutrition, exercise or lifestyle and want to monitor changes in muscle mass, body fat and overall body composition.
For a Bone Density DEXA scan, repeat testing is generally performed less frequently. The appropriate interval depends on factors such as your initial results, age, medical history, medications, fracture risk and whether you are undergoing treatment that may affect bone density. Your GP or treating healthcare provider can advise when repeat testing is appropriate for you.
Where possible, having follow-up scans performed on the same DEXA scanner can help provide more consistent comparisons over time.
Other FAQ's
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Yes. WLC Medical vouchers are available for appointments and services at the clinic, including DEXA scans and packages. Vouchers can be purchased for an existing patient or as a gift for someone who would like to access our services.
To purchase a voucher, please submit an enquiry through our online enquiry form, and a member of our reception team will contact you to arrange the voucher and payment. Alternatively, you can contact our clinic directly on (08) 6263 7778 or speak with our reception team at the clinic.
Can I have a DEXA scan if I am pregnant?
No. WLC Medical does not perform DEXA scans during pregnancy at any stage.
Although DEXA uses a very low dose of radiation, WLC Medical follows the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle for radiation exposure.
If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please let our team know before your appointment.
How much radiation is used during a DEXA scan?
DEXA uses a very low dose of X-ray radiation compared with many other medical imaging procedures.
At WLC Medical, we follow the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle to keep radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable while obtaining the information required from your assessment.
If you have questions or concerns about radiation exposure, please speak with our team before your scan.
Do I need a GP referral for a DEXA scan?
No. You do not need a GP referral to book a Bone Density or Total Body Composition DEXA scan at WLC Medical.
We are also happy to accept referrals from GPs, specialists and other healthcare providers, including referrals addressed to another imaging provider.
If you have been referred, please bring your referral to your appointment if it has not already been provided to us. With your consent, we can also send a copy of your DEXA report to your GP or treating healthcare provider.
How much does a DEXA scan cost?
Our DEXA scan fees are:
Single DEXA Scan – $185 (30 minutes)
Includes either a Bone Density DEXA scan or Total Body Composition DEXA scan.
Bone Density + Total Body Composition DEXA Scans – $235 (30 minutes)
Includes both DEXA assessments during the same appointment.
Bone Density + Total Body Composition DEXA Scans with Allied Health Consultation – $285 (60 minutes)
Includes both DEXA assessments and additional consultation time with a Physiotherapist or Dietitian.
Stand-alone 30-minute DEXA appointments are not eligible for private health rebates. Private health rebates may be available for the eligible Allied Health consultation component of a 60-minute appointment, depending on your health fund and level of cover.
Our administration team may also be able to provide an estimated quote; however, we recommend confirming your rebate directly with your private health insurer.
Can I have Bone Density, Body Composition and Metabolic Testing in one appointment?
Yes. Our Health Insights Package combines a Bone Density DEXA scan, Total Body Composition DEXA scan and ECAL Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) testing during one 60-minute appointment with an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
Your ECAL results are available during your appointment and your initial DEXA results will be briefly discussed. Your comprehensive DEXA report will be provided within 7 business days.
Due to the amount of information collected during the appointment, the Health Insights Package does not include comprehensive dietetic advice or personalised nutrition planning. If you are seeking detailed nutrition advice, we recommend booking a separate Dietitian consultation.
Can I have a DEXA scan if I have a pacemaker or other implants?
Yes. A DEXA scan can generally be performed if you have a pacemaker or other internal medical implant, such as a joint replacement, metal plate or screws.
Please let our team know about any implants before your scan, as they may be visible on the images and may need to be considered when your scan is analysed.
Does WLC Medical use a medical-grade DEXA scanner?
Our DEXA scanner (GE Lunar iDXA) provides high resolution imaging and reports, equivalent to any radiology company in Perth, with our clinic also providing a summarised report of assessment findings.
Our DEXA scanner within WLC Medical is the highest quality scanner currently available in Australia and is 1 of only 4 machines of its type currently installed within WA. Of the other 3 machines in WA, 1 is installed at Perth Children’s Hospital (PCH) and the other 2 are at the University of Western Australia (UWA).
Our reporting is equivalent to radiology companies in Perth, with our reporting turn around being within 7 business days of your scan, emailed directly to you, and to your treating GP with your consent.
When will I receive my DEXA results?
Your initial DEXA results will be briefly discussed with you during your appointment, giving you an opportunity to ask questions and better understand your assessment.
Your comprehensive clinical report will be provided within 7 business days.
With your consent, we can also send a copy of your report to your GP or treating healthcare provider. If your scan relates to a medical condition or ongoing treatment, we recommend discussing your results with your GP or relevant healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and medical care.
