Screening for Osteoporosis

The only way to know if you have osteoporosis is to have a bone density scan

There are two types of painless screening tests:

• DEXA scan is similar to an X-ray. You lie on a table. A movable arm passes over your spine, hips and femurs (thigh bones). A doctor’s prescription is required for this test. Your insurance may require a referral from your doctor before it will cover this test, so talk with your doctor about whether you need a DEXA scan.
• Heel screening uses ultrasound to detect bone loss in your heel. It is not as accurate as a DEXA scan, but it is a good first step. If a heel screening suggests bone loss, your doctor may recommend a DEXA scan. The Metabolic Bone Program at Lehigh Valley Hospital will provide a free heel screening to anyone with a risk factor every two years. Call 610-402-CARE to schedule.

Understanding Your Test Results

You don’t go from normal bones one day to osteoporosis the next. You lose bone density gradually, over years. When you have a bone density test (DEXA or heel scan), it compares your bones with a young, healthy adult.

When to Have a Bone Density Test

Unfortunately, most insurance companies don’t treat DEXA scans like mammograms. They usually won’t pay for a bone density test done purely for screening purposes. If you are under 65, check with your insurance company to find out when and why a DEXA scan is covered. The Metabolic Bone Program will provide a free heel scan every two years to anyone with a risk factor for osteoporosis. If the heel scan shows bone loss, your insurance company may be more likely to approve a DEXA scan. Call 610-402-CARE for more information.

If you are over 65, Medicare will pay for a DEXA screening every two years. It is every two years because bone loss happens slowly.

Another thing you can do at no cost is to keep track of your height. Height loss can be a symptom of bone loss. If you’re over 50, make sure your height is measured at the doctor’s office at least once a year. Keep track of the numbers yourself, and remind your doctor if you’re losing height. You may qualify for coverage of a DEXA scan if you have height loss.

Don’t wait to break a bone to find out you have osteoporosis!

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