Can I have a Bone Density DEXA scan if I have already been diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis?

A Bone Density DEXA scan is $185 and is completed during a 30-minute appointment.

If you would also like a Total Body Composition DEXA scan, both assessments can be completed during the same 30-minute appointment for $235.

A combined Bone Density and Total Body Composition DEXA assessment with additional consultation time with a Physiotherapist or Dietitian is $285 for a 60-minute appointment.

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.

A Bone Density DEXA scan measures your Bone Mineral Density (BMD) to help assess the strength and density of your bones.

Your results include T-score and Z-score measurements, which provide information that can help identify reduced bone density and assess your risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis and fractures.

Your results should be considered alongside your medical history and other individual risk factors when making decisions about your ongoing bone health.

Your initial Bone Density results will be briefly discussed with you during your appointment.

You will receive a comprehensive clinical report within 7 business days, including your Bone Mineral Density (BMD) and relevant T-score and Z-score measurements.

With your consent, we can also send a copy of your report to your GP or treating healthcare provider.

If your scan identifies reduced bone density or relates to an existing medical condition or treatment, we recommend discussing your results with your GP or relevant healthcare provider to determine whether any further assessment or management is appropriate.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing without metal where possible.

Please avoid clothing with metal zips, buttons, belts, hi-vis reflective tape or underwire, as these may interfere with your scan.

You may also be asked to remove items such as jewellery, watches, keys or other metal objects before your assessment.

A T-score compares your bone mineral density with that of a healthy young adult reference population. It is commonly used when assessing bone density and identifying osteoporosis or low bone mass in appropriate adults.

A Z-score compares your bone mineral density with people of a similar age and sex.

Your DEXA report includes these measurements where appropriate. Your GP or treating healthcare provider can interpret them alongside your medical history, medications, fracture risk and other relevant health information.

How often you should repeat a Bone Density DEXA scan depends on your individual circumstances.

Bone density generally changes gradually, so repeat scans are usually performed less frequently than Body Composition DEXA scans.

The appropriate interval may depend on your previous results, age, fracture risk, medical history, medications 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.