Suffolk Breast Imaging

Bone Density Testing

What is bone density testing?

Suffolk Breast Imaging offers DEXA (DXA) Bone Density Testing, a painless, low-radiation imaging test that measures the strength and density of your bones.

DEXA Scans can be taken of the lower back (lumbar spine), hip, or wrist, and are used to:

  • Detect low bone density before a person breaks a bone
  • Assess bone fracture risk
  • Diagnose Osteoporosis or Osteopenia (low bone density)
  • Predict a person’s chances of breaking a bone in the future
  • Determine if bone density is changing or remaining stable
  • Monitor how well treatments for bone loss are working

Suffolk Breast Imaging offers additional types of bone density exams:

Trabecular Bone Score (TBS)

An additional measure of a person’s bone quality and strength of internal bone structure. The TBS offers additional insight into fracture risk without additional radiation or time for our patients.

Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA)

An additional assessment that detects spine fractures that could otherwise go unnoticed. VFA is an additional test that requires a prescription.

Who should get a Bone Density Test?

DEXA Bone Density Scanning is recommended for the following groups:

  • Women over 65
  • Men over 70
  • Individuals over 50 who have broken bones in the past
  • Individuals with a family history of osteoporosis
  • People who’ve lost an inch and a half or more of height from their tallest height

 

For most people, DEXA bone density testing is recommended every two years. However, your doctor may recommend testing more frequently if you experience risk factors for bone loss or are currently being treated for osteoporosis.

Schedule Your Bone density testing in suffolk county

Suffolk Breast Imaging proudly serves patients from all over Suffolk County and Long Island, including Lake Grove, Smithtown, Stony Brook, Centereach, Holbrook, Ronkonkoma, and more surrounding communities.

 

Call (631) 588-4500 to schedule your next bone density test today.

Preparing for Your Bone Density Test

A few simple steps can make your visit smooth and stress-free

  • Patients are required to discontinue use of calcium supplements and antacids at least 24 hours prior to their DEXA. Calcium supplements and antacids can include: Vitamins with calcium, TUMS™, Rolaids, Pepto-Bismol, etc.

  • Avoid wearing clothing with metal from the waist down (like jeans, belts, or zippers)

  • Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and prescription.

  • Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in.

Frequently asked questions about bone density testing

  • During the exam, you will lie flat on your back on a padded open X-ray table. A mechanical scanning arm will pass over your body. This arm uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone density.

  • The exam is painless and will last about 15-30 minutes. You can return to normal activities immediately after.

  • Many insurances, including Medicare, cover DEXA scanning every two years for patients who meet their criteria, or more often if medically necessary. However, coverage varies by insurance provider and plan. Please contact your insurance provider directly with questions about coverage. If you have questions about insurance verification or billing, please contact our billing team at (631) 588-4500.

  • Don’t have insurance? Our facility offers self-pay pricing. Please call (631) 588-4500 for more information

  • Yes, we require prescriptions for all of our services, including bone density testing. The results of your imaging will be sent to your referring physician to support your ongoing care and next steps.

  • Please bring a prescription to your appointment or have it faxed to 631-588-4595.

  • Test results are typically available within a week following your appointment and will automatically be sent to your referring doctor.

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