Bone Mineral Densitometry
What is Bone Mineral Densitometry?

Also known as a DEXA, a bone density scan is a vital tool in evaluating bone health, determining the risk of osteoporosis and assess body composition. This information enables your healthcare team to recommend appropriate preventive measures and treatments to maintain bone strength and reduce fracture risks.

What to expect when getting Bone Mineral Densitometry

A bone density scan, which takes about 15 minutes, measures the bone mineral density in your lumbar spine (lower back), hip, and sometimes your forearm. Scanning these areas offers the best fracture risk assessment and overall bone density.

During the test, you will lie on a flat padded table as the arm of the DEXA machine moves over your body.  The radiation exposure during the test is minimal, and you may need to change into a gown.

This test is a valuable tool in understanding your bone health, allowing you and your doctor to make informed decisions about maintaining or improving your bone density and reducing fracture risks.

How to prepare
Bring the referral your Doctor or Specialist gave you.
Bring the referral your Doctor or Specialist gave you.
Wear comfortable clothing and leave any valuables at home where possible.
Wear comfortable clothing and leave any valuables at home where possible.
Bring your Medicare card, healthcare card or insurance details as applicable.
Bring your Medicare card, healthcare card or insurance details as applicable.
Advise the administration team if you have had relevant imaging outside of St Vincent’s.
Advise the administration team if you have had relevant imaging outside of St Vincent’s.
Let our team know if you’re pregnant or have any allergies to contrast dyes.
Let our team know if you’re pregnant or have any allergies to contrast dyes.
Accessing your results
Accessing your results

All diagnostic imaging reports are sent directly to your referring healthcare provider.

 

Access to reports via MyHealth Record is currently unavailable while we complete the required integration. We are working to install this service and will update our website once this has been completed.

Billing and Medicare
Billing and Medicare

We are committed to providing affordable competitive out of pocket fees.

 

For Medicare rebatable examinations, We Bulk Bill Pension or Concession card holders and full-time tertiary students.

 

If you have any questions regarding fees or billing, please contact our administration team.

Make a Booking

Some examinations require specific preparation. Complete our booking form to ensure your visit with us goes smoothly. Once your booking form is received, our team will contact you to confirm an appointment.

Make a Booking
Getting Here

Visit us at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne Building B, Basement Level, 55 Victoria Parade Fitzroy, conveniently near public transport and with free parking available.

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Basement, 55 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy VIC 3065

Ground Floor, 59 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy VIC 3065
 
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03 9231 1005
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At SVMH, we focus on embodying our values of compassion, justice, integrity and excellence by actively striving for LGBTQIA+ safety and responsiveness with staff and LGBTQIA+ peoples in the care of our service.

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