Private DEXA Scan (Bone Density)
Private DEXA Scan (Bone Density) – Book a Scan
From £150 | Final price depends on location, provider and scan requirements.
Your booking may require clinical review, referral checks or provider approval before the appointment is confirmed. This helps ensure the scan is appropriate, safe and accepted by the imaging provider.
Scan Overview
A DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan is a low-dose imaging technique used to measure bone mineral density and assess body composition. It is the most widely used method for evaluating bone health and estimating fracture risk. DEXA scans are available at accredited UK imaging centres.
DEXA scans use a very small amount of ionising radiation, significantly lower than a standard X-ray. Clinical appropriateness checks are carried out as part of the booking process.
What a DEXA Scan May Help Assess
- Bone mineral density at the spine, hip and forearm
- Osteoporosis risk and fracture risk estimation
- Response to osteoporosis treatment over time
- Body composition including fat mass and lean mass
- Bone health in patients with conditions affecting bone density
A DEXA scan can provide useful imaging information about bone density, but it does not diagnose a condition. Your provider or referring clinician will interpret the results in the context of your clinical history.
Who This Scan May Be Suitable For
DEXA scans are often suitable for self-referral or clinician referral, depending on provider policy. The scan may be appropriate for:
- Adults concerned about bone health or osteoporosis risk
- Post-menopausal women
- Men over 50 with risk factors for bone loss
- Patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy
- Patients with conditions associated with reduced bone density
- Those monitoring the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatment
Age, pregnancy status and clinical appropriateness checks will be carried out as part of the booking process. Your provider will confirm suitability before confirming your appointment.
Referral and Clinical Review Requirements
DEXA scans are often suitable for self-referral after completing a medical form and appropriateness checks. A clinician referral may be required in some cases, depending on the provider and clinical indication.
Some scans can be booked directly after completing a medical form. Other scans require clinical review, referral checks or provider approval before confirmation. We will guide you through the correct pathway based on your scan type, symptoms, location and provider requirements.
Medical Form
All patients are required to complete a medical information form as part of the booking process. This includes questions about age, clinical history, current medications and pregnancy status.
Safety Checks
- DEXA uses a very low dose of ionising radiation
- Pregnant patients should not have a DEXA scan – pregnancy status must be confirmed before booking
- Patients who have recently had a barium examination, contrast CT or nuclear medicine scan may need to wait before having a DEXA scan – your provider will advise
- Clinical appropriateness will be assessed as part of the booking process
Preparation
No special preparation is usually required for a standard DEXA scan. You may be asked to avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan. Wear comfortable clothing without metal fastenings. Your provider will send specific preparation instructions after your booking is confirmed.
Available Locations
DEXA scans are available at a network of accredited UK imaging centres. Availability, pricing and appointment times vary by location. You will be able to select your preferred location or search by postcode during the booking process.
What Happens After Booking
- Complete the medical information and appropriateness form
- Your booking is reviewed for clinical suitability
- Your appointment is confirmed by the provider
- Attend your scan at the chosen location
- Receive your results report
Results and Reporting
Results are typically reported by a consultant radiologist and made available within 24–48 hours of your scan, depending on the provider. Your report will include your bone density measurements and a T-score, which is used to assess fracture risk. Your report will be sent to you directly and, where applicable, to your referring clinician.
Pricing
From £150
Final price depends on location, provider and scan requirements. You will be shown the confirmed price before completing your booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for a private DEXA scan?
DEXA scans are often suitable for self-referral after completing a medical form and appropriateness checks. A clinician referral may be required in some cases. We will guide you through the correct pathway.
Is a DEXA scan safe?
Yes. DEXA uses a very low dose of ionising radiation – significantly lower than a standard X-ray. It is not suitable for pregnant patients.
What is a T-score?
A T-score is a measurement used to compare your bone density with that of a healthy young adult. Your results report will explain your T-score and what it may indicate about your bone health.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
A standard DEXA scan typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.
How quickly will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 24–48 hours of your scan, depending on the provider.