DEXA BMD

DEXA Scans — Sydney

If you’re looking to get a body composition scan, the Sydney team at Specialist Medical Imaging can provide the exceptional healthcare services you need. We offer DEXA scans at our Parramatta clinic to provide people with accurate measurements of their body composition, including their body fat, muscle mass, and bone density.

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What is a

DEXA SCANS

A Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (commonly abbreviated as DEXA or DXA) scan is a non-invasive test that is quick, painless, and requires minimal preparation. The test uses low-level X-ray beams to scan specific areas of a patient’s body (typically the hips and spine) and accurately measure the percentage of fat, bone, and muscle.

 

How a DEXA Scan Can Help You

A DEXA scan is typically used to measure bone mineral density (BMD) to diagnose and determine the severity of health issues such as osteoporosis and bone fractures. They may also be required after an osteoporosis diagnosis to help doctors measure the effectiveness of certain treatments so they can provide the best care for their patients. 


DEXA BMD scans work by examining a segment of bone and offering accurate visual information about the quantity of calcium and other bone minerals that are packed into that segment. These scans are commonly recommended for people over 50, particularly those with a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. This may include people who are postmenopausal, have had a broken bone, or have specific health conditions that impact their bone health.


While DEXA scans are typically used as a way of measuring BMD to diagnose and monitor conditions like osteoporosis, they can also be used to provide people with Total Body Composition reports. This helps people who are looking to accurately monitor changes in their muscle bulk and fat content when undergoing new weight treatments or following new training regimens.

DO YOU NEED A REFERRAL?

If you are getting a DEXA scan to measure your Total Body Composition, you will not require a referral from your doctor and will be billed privately for the service. However, if you require a DEXA scan to measure your BMD, you will need a referral from your GP or health specialist. 


Patients undergoing a DEXA BMD scan may also be eligible for a Medicare rebate if they meet certain criteria outlined under specific items in the Medicare Benefits Schedule. These criteria are as follows: 

One Service Within 

  • One Service Within a 12-Month Period

    One Service Within a 12-Month Period

    If you have been referred for one DEXA BMD scan within a 12-month period, you may be eligible for a rebate under items 12312 and 12321. These items indicate that patients are entitled to receive a Medicare rebate if they have undergone or experienced any of the following: 

    • Prolonged glucocorticoid therapy
    • Any condition(s) associated with excess glucocorticoid secretion
    • Male hypogonadism
    • Female hypogonadism lasting longer than 6 months before the age of 45
    • A significant change in therapy at least 12 months ago to address confirmed or presumed low BMD

  • One Service Within a 24-Month Period

    If you require one DEXA scan within a 24-month period to measure your BMD, you may be able to receive a rebate under items 12306, 12315, and 12322. Under these items, patients are eligible for a Medicare rebate if they have received or experienced any of the following: 

    • One or more fractures after minimal trauma, resulting in suspected low BMD
    • Low BMD results proven by a bone densitometry test at least 12 months prior
    • Primary hyperparathyroidism
    • Chronic liver or renal disease
    • Proven malabsorption disorders
    • Rheumatoid arthritis
    • Any condition linked to an overactive thyroid, such as hyperthyroidism
    • A T-score of less than -1.5 but more than -2.5 when they were aged 70 years or older

  • One Service Within a 5-Year Period

    If your doctor has recommended you have one DEXA scan within a 5-year period, you may qualify for a rebate if you meet the criteria specified under item 12320. This item states that patients are entitled to receive a Medicare rebate if they are 70 years or older and have either:

    • Previously received a T-score of less than -1.5 or more, or
    • Not had a bone densitometry test in the past

Book Our Imaging Services Today

Contact our clinic online and book an appointment for a DEXA scan with our Sydney team today! At Specialist Medical Imaging, we’re passionate about providing accessible healthcare to all, which is why we offer walk-in same-day services at our Grose Street Parramatta site for your convenience. We also accept all referral forms, including those from other radiology practices, making it easy for you to receive the reliable health services you need.

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