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A bone density scan uses DEXA to measure how strong your bones are, usually at the hip and lower spine. It is the standard test for osteoporosis.
Also called: BMD scan, Osteoporosis scan, DXA scan, Bone mineral density test
Find a clinic for your bone density scan
37 clinics offer bulk billing for DEXA scan — eligibility varies
Where to get a bone density scan
38 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer DEXA scan.
Clinics for a bone density scan on Radly
See all 38 →
What is a bone density scan?
A bone density scan measures the mineral content of your bones using two low-dose X-ray beams. The results are compared with healthy young adults (T-score) and people your age (Z-score) to show whether you have normal bone density, osteopenia or osteoporosis.
You lie on your back on a padded table while a scanning arm passes slowly over your hips and lower spine. Your legs may rest on a cushion to flatten your back. It's painless, and you stay dressed if your clothes have no metal. Sometimes the forearm is scanned too.
A bone density scan doesn't diagnose a fracture or explain bone pain. Repeat scans, usually every two years or as your doctor advises, track changes over time or response to treatment.
Why your doctor might request a bone density scan
- Checking for osteoporosis in people aged 70 and over
- A fracture after a minor fall
- Long-term steroid use or conditions that affect bone
- Early menopause or low hormone levels
- Monitoring osteoporosis treatment
Bone density scan: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your bone density scan
- Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan.
- Wear clothes without metal zips, buttons or belts around the hips and waist.
- Tell the clinic if you've had a barium test, CT contrast or nuclear medicine scan in the past week or two.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant.
How long it takes: About 15–20 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A referral from your GP or specialist is needed. Medicare rebates for bone density scans apply only to eligible patients, for example people aged 70 and over or with certain medical conditions or a previous low-trauma fracture, and there are rules about how often they can be repeated. Otherwise the scan is privately billed. Eligibility rules apply; the clinic confirms billing.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your bone density scan and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Bone density scan FAQs
Is a bone density scan covered by Medicare?
Only for eligible patients, such as those aged 70+ or with specific conditions. The clinic confirms whether you qualify.
What do T-scores mean?
A T-score of -1 or above is normal, between -1 and -2.5 is osteopenia, and -2.5 or below is osteoporosis.
How often should I have a bone density scan?
Usually every one to two years if you're being monitored, depending on your doctor's advice and Medicare rules.
How do I book a bone density scan online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select DEXA Scan as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a bone density scan?
Appointments for DEXA scan are usually 1–5 days, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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