DEXA Scan for Bone Density
Bone density testing, arranged and read by a physician
What Is a DEXA Scan and How Does It Work?
A DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan uses two low-dose X-ray beams to measure your bone mineral density (BMD). It shows how strong your bones are and whether you have lost bone density over time.
At HealthScreen, a DEXA scan measures bone mineral density only. Your report includes:
- Bone mineral density at the measured sites
- A T-score, which compares your bone density with a healthy young adult’s
- A Z-score, which compares your bone density with people of your age and sex
It is the clinical standard for measuring bone density. HealthScreen does not use DEXA for body composition: fat, muscle and visceral fat are measured with the InBody970 instead.
At HealthScreen, DEXA is used as part of a broader preventative health assessment, so your results are read with your blood markers and imaging rather than on their own. It is available in Sydney and Melbourne as a $250 add-on to either program, arranged once your physician identifies a clinical reason (typically osteoporosis risk), and can be done on your diagnostic day if available.
Contact Us
Our Difference
Medical-Grade Imaging
DEXA gives precise, repeatable measurements of bone density, so changes between scans reflect real change in your bones.
Expert Interpretation
A HealthScreen physician reviews your results in context, so you understand what they mean for your age, sex and overall health.
Preventative, Personalised Approach
DEXA results are not viewed in isolation. They are read with your blood panel, including vitamin D, to support proactive, evidence-based health planning.
Why might I need a DEXA Scan?
Find bone loss early
Osteoporosis often has no symptoms until a bone breaks. A DEXA scan can show bone loss while there is still plenty you can do about it.
Set a baseline and track change
A first scan gives you a baseline. Repeat scans show whether changes to exercise, nutrition or treatment are protecting your bone density.
HEALTH DIAGNOSTIC PROGRAMS & LONGEVITY MEMBERSHIPS
At HealthScreen, we use advanced diagnostics to help you take a proactive approach to health — not just to live longer, but to live better.
Why a bone density scan matters?
Bone mineral density reflects the strength of your bones. Lower bone density raises the risk of fractures, loss of mobility and reduced quality of life as you age. DEXA reports it as a T-score, which compares your bones with a healthy young adult’s:
T-scores apply to postmenopausal women and men over 50; younger adults are assessed with a Z-score.
A DEXA scan helps your physician:
- Identify age and hormone-related changes in bone strength
- Understand the impact of nutrition on your bones
- See how physical activity is affecting your bones
- Assess medical and medication-related risk factors
DEXA vs InBody: what's the difference?
DEXA and InBody are often mentioned together, but they measure different things. At HealthScreen, DEXA is used for bone density only, and body composition (muscle, fat and visceral fat) is measured with the InBody970. Unlike some clinics, HealthScreen does not use DEXA for body composition.
| Feature | DEXA scan | InBody970 scan |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Two low-dose X-ray beams | A safe, low-level electrical signal (bioelectrical impedance) |
| Measures | Bone mineral density | Muscle mass, body fat, visceral fat and fluid balance |
| Bone density | Yes, clinically diagnostic | No |
| Radiation | Very low dose of ionising radiation | None |
| Used at HealthScreen for | Bone density, where clinically indicated | Body composition, and tracking change between visits |
| Best for | Osteoporosis risk and bone health | Regular tracking of fitness and metabolic health |
To measure body fat, muscle and visceral fat, HealthScreen uses the InBody970. It is a $120 add-on to the HealthScreen Program and included in the Platinum Program. Read more about our InBody body composition scan, or how body composition differs from BMI.
Still Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.
Do I need a DEXA scan?
Not everyone needs a DEXA scan. It is an optional $250 add-on to either program, and it is only arranged once your physician has reviewed your risk factors and medical history and identified a clinical reason, typically a risk of osteoporosis. Although DEXA uses a very low dose of radiation, it remains a medical imaging test. Our physician-led approach ensures every investigation has a clear clinical purpose and contributes meaningfully to your long-term health. If your main goal is tracking body fat and muscle, the InBody scan is the right test instead.
How much does a DEXA scan cost at HealthScreen?
A DEXA scan is a $250 add-on to either HealthScreen diagnostic program.
Is a DEXA scan covered by Medicare?
No Medicare or private health rebates apply to the DEXA add-on fee, as with HealthScreen program fees.
Are DEXA scans safe?
DEXA scans are non-invasive and routinely used in clinical practice. They use a very low dose of ionising radiation, lower than most chest X-rays, which is why HealthScreen only arranges one when it is clinically indicated. The International Atomic Energy Agency puts a spine and hip bone density scan at less than 1 to about 15 microsieverts, compared with about 10 microsieverts a day from natural background radiation.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
A bone density scan usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
How is the scan performed?
A DEXA scan is a quick procedure that involves lying on your back on an X-ray table while specific areas of your body are measured.
Do I need to prepare for the scan?
Yes. DEXA follows the standard HealthScreen pre-appointment preparation:
- Fast from midnight the night before. Water is encouraged.
- Keep taking your regular prescribed medications unless your doctor or a HealthScreen physician advises otherwise, and bring a list of your medications and supplements.
- Wear light clothing and remove metal accessories for accurate results.
“People with a fracture after a minor injury, early menopause, long-term corticosteroid use or other osteoporosis risk factors should discuss whether a bone density scan is appropriate, because bone loss often develops without symptoms.”
– Dr David Badov, Medical Director, HealthScreen
Get StartedSpeak to Our Team Today