Bone mineral densitometry

BMD scans are essential for:

• Diagnosing Osteoporosis: Detect low bone density early to protect your bone health and prevent fractures.
• Predicting Fracture Risk: Identify vulnerabilities in your bones, particularly in the spine, hip, or forearm, to guide preventive measures.
• Monitoring Treatment Progress: Track the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatments, ensuring your therapy is working.

Our scans typically measure bone density in the lumbar spine, upper femur (hip), and, when needed, the forearm. In some cases, a total body scan. Your results are compared to a reference population matched for age, sex, and ethnicity, delivering personalised insights tailored to you.

BMD scans are recommended for:

• Women over 65 and men over 70.
• Postmenopausal women or men over 50 with risk factors (e.g., family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, or prior fractures).
• Individuals on long-term medications (e.g., corticosteroids) that affect bone health.
• Anyone concerned about bone strength or fracture risk.

Early detection is key to maintaining strong, healthy bones. Schedule your BMD scan today to stay ahead of potential issues.

At Benson Radiology, we prioritise your comfort and convenience. Here’s what you can expect:

• Quick and Painless: The scan takes just 10–15 minutes. You’ll lie comfortably on an examination table while our advanced DEXA scanner captures precise measurements using low-dose X-rays.
• Non-Invasive: No needles or injections—just a simple, safe procedure.
• Immediate Results: In most cases, results are available shortly after your scan, allowing for prompt discussion with your healthcare provider.

To ensure the best experience and accurate results, follow these simple steps:

1. Complete the Questionnaire: Fill out our BMD Appointment Questionnaire before your visit to provide essential health information.
2. Avoid Calcium Supplements: Refrain from taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan, as they may affect results.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose-fitting clothes without metal zippers, buttons, or belts to avoid interference with the scan.
4. Inform Us: Let us know if you’ve recently had a contrast-based imaging test (e.g., CT or MRI with contrast) or if you’re pregnant, as these may require rescheduling.

No fasting or special preparation is needed, making your BMD scan a hassle-free experience.

• Cutting-Edge Technology: Our DEXA scanners deliver unparalleled accuracy, ensuring reliable results you can trust.
• Expert Care: Our experienced radiologists and technologists provide personalised, compassionate service.
• Convenient Locations: With multiple clinics across Australia, we make it easy to access top-tier bone density testing.
• Comprehensive Support: From scheduling to results, our team guides you every step of the way.

How often should I get a BMD scan?
Most people need a scan every 1–2 years, depending on risk factors and your doctor’s recommendations.

Is the radiation safe?
Yes, BMD scans use very low-dose X-rays, equivalent to a fraction of a chest X-ray, making them extremely safe.

Will my insurance cover the scan?
Many insurance plans cover BMD scans, especially for those at risk of osteoporosis. Check with your provider for details.

In Australia, Medicare provides rebates for BMD scans under specific conditions, as outlined in the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). To be eligible for a rebate, your referral must clearly indicate the relevant clinical condition. Below is a list of applicable MBS item numbers and their descriptions:

• Item 12306: Bone densitometry using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for:
  • Confirmation of low bone mineral density based on 1 or more fractures after minimal trauma.
  • Monitoring of proven low bone mineral density from a prior scan at least 12 months earlier.
  • Frequency: Once every 24 months.
    
    
• Item 12312: Bone densitometry using DEXA, measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for diagnosis and monitoring of bone loss associated with:
  • Prolonged glucocorticoid therapy (e.g., ≥800 µg/day beclomethasone dipropionate or budesonide, or ≥7.5 mg/day prednisolone for at least 4 months).
  • Conditions with excess glucocorticoid secretion.
  • Male hypogonadism (serum testosterone below age-matched normal range).
  • Female hypogonadism lasting more than 6 months before age 45.
  • Frequency: Once every 12 months.
    
    
• Item 12315: Bone densitometry using DEXA, measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for diagnosis and monitoring of bone loss associated with:
  • Primary hyperparathyroidism.
  • Chronic liver disease.
  • Chronic renal disease.
  • Proven malabsorptive disorders (e.g., coeliac disease or Crohn’s disease).
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Conditions associated with thyroxine excess.
  • Frequency: Once every 24 months.
    
    
• Item 12320: Bone densitometry using DEXA or quantitative computed tomography (QCT), measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for patients aged 70 years or over who:
  • Have not previously had a bone densitometry scan, or
  • Have a T-score of -1.5 or higher (normal to mild osteopenia).
  • Frequency: Once every 5 years.
    
    
• Item 12321: Bone densitometry using DEXA, measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for:
  • Established low bone mineral density, or
  • Confirmation of low bone mineral density based on 1 or more fractures after minimal trauma, performed 12 months after a significant change in therapy (e.g., change in drug class, not just dosage).
  • Frequency: Once every 12 months.
    
    
• Item 12322: Bone densitometry using DEXA or QCT, measuring 2 or more sites (including interpretation and reporting), for patients aged 70 years or over with a T-score between -1.5 and -2.5 (moderate osteopenia).
  • Frequency: Once every 2 years.
    
    

Note: Medicare rebates require a referral from a medical practitioner specifying the relevant clinical indication. Scans for general screening without meeting these criteria are not eligible for a rebate and may incur a private fee. Contact our team or your healthcare provider to confirm eligibility.