How much radiation exposure is there with a DEXA scan?
The amount of radiation a patient is exposed to is quite small. It is approximately 1/30th that of a chest x-ray, which is comparable to the naturally occurring radiation you are exposed to in one week. Will my insurance cover the cost of a DEXA scan? A DEXA scan costs approximately $300. Many insurance companies cover the cost, but check with your insurance provider for the specific coverage you receive. Medicare began coverage of screenings in 1998. A repeat screening is covered once every 24 months. Medicare will also pay for a DEXA in specific situations other than screening, including: • Patients who have been noted to have “thin bones” or certain fractures on a conventional bone x-ray. • Patients who are taking more than 7.5 mg of prednisone per day. • Patients with an overactive parathyroid gland. • Patients already taking an FDA approved drug for the treatment of osteoporosis to see how well it is working. Ultimately, if you are interested in the procedure, you should discuss t
