Short answer: A Bone Density DEXA Scan may be recommended for people who have risk factors for reduced bone density or osteoporosis, or who simply want to better understand their bone health. It is a quick, low-radiation assessment that measures bone mineral density and can help identify changes before a fracture occurs
Long answer:
Bone health changes throughout life, often without causing noticeable symptoms.
Because reduced bone density usually develops gradually, many people are unaware they have osteopenia or osteoporosis until they experience a fracture or undergo a Bone Density DEXA Scan.
A Bone Density DEXA Scan provides valuable information about your bone health and can help inform discussions about your bone health and whether further assessment or ongoing monitoring may be appropriate.
Who May Benefit from a Bone Density DEXA Scan?
A Bone Density DEXA Scan may be appropriate for people who:
- Have been through menopause or experienced early menopause.
- Have a family history of osteoporosis.
- Have previously broken a bone following a minor fall or injury.
- Have been advised they are at increased risk of osteoporosis.
- Have a medical condition that may affect bone health.
- Take certain medications, such as long-term corticosteroids.
- Have a low body weight or other recognised risk factors for reduced bone density.
- Would like to establish a baseline measurement of their bone health.
- Are monitoring their bone health over time.
Your GP or specialist may also recommend a Bone Density DEXA Scan based on your age, medical history, medications or individual risk factors.
Why Is Early Assessment Important?
Osteoporosis is often called a “silent disease” because bone loss usually occurs without pain or obvious symptoms.
Identifying reduced bone density early provides an opportunity to discuss your results with your healthcare professional and determine whether any further assessment, monitoring or management is appropriate.
What Happens During a Bone Density DEXA Scan?
A Bone Density DEXA Scan is:
- Quick
- Comfortable
- Non-invasive
- Performed using a very low dose of X-ray radiation
During the assessment, you will lie comfortably on the scanning table while the scanner measures the bone mineral density of areas such as your hips and lower spine.
The assessment typically takes only a few minutes.
Do You Need a GP Referral?
No.
You do not need a GP referral to book a Bone Density DEXA Scan at WLC Medical.
Many people choose to self-refer to better understand their bone health, establish a baseline or monitor changes over time.
If your GP or specialist has recommended a Bone Density DEXA Scan, you are also welcome to bring your referral to your appointment.
Key Takeaways
- Bone density naturally changes throughout life.
- Reduced bone density often develops without symptoms.
- A Bone Density DEXA Scan may be appropriate for people with recognised risk factors or those wanting to better understand their bone health.
- Early assessment may help identify changes before fractures occur.
- You do not need a GP referral to book a Bone Density DEXA Scan at WLC Medical.
How WLC Medical Can Help
At WLC Medical, our trained Physiotherapists and Accredited Practising Dietitians perform medical-grade Bone Density DEXA Scans from our clinic in Belmont, Perth.
Following your assessment, you’ll receive a comprehensive clinical report, and our clinicians take the time to explain your results, answer your questions and help you understand what they may mean for your bone health. With your permission, your report can also be forwarded to your GP or other treating healthcare professional to support your ongoing care.
Ready to Better Understand Your Bone Health?
Whether you’re looking to establish a baseline, monitor changes over time or better understand your bone health, our team is here to help.
To book an appointment or speak with our friendly team, call (08) 6263 7778, or book online through HotDoc.
Related Articles
Continue learning about bone health and DEXA scans:
- Do I Need a GP Referral for a DEXA Scan?
- Bone Density Scan vs Body Composition Scan: Which DEXA Scan Is Right for You?
- Osteopenia vs Osteoporosis: What’s the Difference?
References
- Healthy Bones Australia. Bone Health and Osteoporosis.
- Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Guidelines for Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis and Management.
- International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD). Official Positions.
- National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
Last reviewed: October 2026
This article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace personalised medical advice. If you have questions about your bone health or whether a Bone Density DEXA Scan may be appropriate for you, please speak with your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.
