Dexa (Dxa) Scanning For Bone Density Testing
DEXA measures bone density at the hip and spine, which are important sites for assessing your future fracture risk. The wrist can also be measured.
DEXA is:
- Quick (15–20 minutes total time with a 5-minute scan)
- Painless
- Uses very low radiation (comparable to one day of natural background exposure)
- Does not require medications
Medicare Eligibility
Medicare may cover the cost of a DXA scan if you meet certain criteria, including:
- Age 70 or older
- Diagnosed medical conditions that affect bone health (thyrotoxicosis, menopause, hyperparathyroidism)
- Previous minimal trauma fracture (fracture after a fall from standing)
- Long-term use of corticosteroids
Our endocrinologists will advise on your eligibility.
Understanding Your Results
Your DEXA scan will provide a T-score, a statistical measure comparing your bone mineral density to that of a healthy 30-year-old of the same gender, indicating the amount of bone loss:
- Diagnosed medical conditions that affect bone health (thyrotoxicosis, menopause, hyperparathyroidism)
- Osteopenia: -1.1 to -2.4 (early bone loss)
- Osteoporosis: -2.5 or lower (high fracture risk)
Your doctor will discuss treatment options if needed, which may include medication, calcium and vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise programs such as ONERO.
How Often Should You Be Tested?
- If you have osteoporosis or risk factors: every 1-2 years on the same scanner
- If your bones are healthy: every 5-10 years, depending on age and initial results
Dexa (Dxa) Scanning For Body Composition Analysis
DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the gold standard for accurately measuring body composition, including fat mass, lean muscle mass, and bone mineral content. It is far more accurate and gives your treating doctor more useful information compared with traditional scales or those you may find at the gym. It is useful to help track fat mass loss and preservation of muscle mass as you embark on a weight loss program.
Why Choose DEXA for Body Composition?
DEXA is:
- Quick (15–20 minutes total time with a 5-minute scan)
- Painless
- Uses very low radiation (comparable to one day of natural background exposure)
- Does not require medications
What Does the Scan Show?
Your DEXA report includes total body fat percentage, regional fat distribution (e.g., visceral fat around organs), lean muscle mass in arms, legs, and trunk, and bone mineral density (optional add-on). This information is extremely useful to your treating doctor to ensure you are preserving muscle mass and losing ideally visceral fat mass which is associated with increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Medicare Eligibility
Unlike bone density scans, DEXA body composition scans are not covered by Medicare. In Victoria, you are required to obtain a referral for a body composition scan. These can be obtained from our Baldur Specialists or in some cases they maybe able to be provided by your general practitioner.
How Often Should You Have a DEXA Body Scan?
There is no set time for when scans should be obtained but for those on a weight loss program we suggest every 6-12 months. Recommendations as to the frequency of scans can be made by our Baldur Health Care Endocrinoilogists.
DEXA & Body Composition Scans at Baldur Health Care
Accurate Bone and Body Composition Assessment
Our HOLOGIC DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scans provide precise measurements of bone density and body composition (fat and muscle mass), helping you and your doctor monitor osteoporosis risk and overall health during treatments such as MOUNJARO and WEGOVY for weight loss.
We have dedicated Osteoporosis Nursing Staff dedicated to accurate and reproducible scanning so as you can map your progress over time.
Why Choose Baldur Health Care for DEXA?
- Safe & Painless: Low-dose X-ray technology.
- Quick & Reliable: Scans take only 10–20 minutes.
- Comprehensive Analysis: Bone strength, fat, and lean mass testing, assessed and reported by dedicated Endocrinology Specialists.
Preparation Checklist
To ensure accurate results:
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal (avoid zippers, buttons, underwire bras).
- Remove jewelry and metal accessories.
- Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan.
- Bring your referral letter (If not already a patient of Baldur Health Care) and any previous DEXA reports you may have
- Inform us if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- Notify us of recent imaging with contrast (CT, MRI, barium).
- Arrive hydrated; fasting is not required.
- Provide height, weight, and relevant medical history.
Patient-Friendly FAQ
Still have questions? Contact Us
What is a DEXA scan?
A safe, low-dose X-ray that measures bone density and body composition.
Why do I need this scan?
To assess osteoporosis risk, monitor bone health, and evaluate fat and muscle distribution.
How long does it take?
10–20 minutes, depending on the areas assessed.
Do I need to fast?
No. Just avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan.
Is it safe?
Yes. Radiation exposure is minimal, but scans are not recommended during pregnancy.
Will it hurt?
No. The scan is painless—you simply lie still on the table.
How often should I have a DEXA scan?
As advised by your doctor, generally no more than four scans per year.
What should I bring?
Referral letter, previous reports, and medication list (if not already a patient of Baldur Health Care).
Still have questions? Contact Us