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Get a Bone Density Scan at South Jersey Radiology

As you age, your physician may recommend monitoring your bone mass over time through bone density scans, also known as DEXA. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans are a medical imaging technique used to measure bone thickness and strength, usually on the hip or spine.

You lose bone density throughout life as part of the body’s natural process of replacing old bone with new ones. Around the age of 30, the rate of bone loss may outpace the rate of bone replacement, setting the stage for osteopenia, the precursor for osteoporosis. In America, around ten million people are affected by osteoporosis, with 80% of them being women.

View our available Bone Density (DEXA) appointments at a location near you today

Our Bone Density (DEXA) Locations

South Jersey Radiology provides bone density (DEXA) scans across 10 of our office locations. SJRA offers same-day and next-day appointment options with many locations offering extended and weekend hours to meet your busy schedule.

Locations Providing:

• Haddonfield

• Marlton (Greentree)

• Moorestown

• Mount Laurel

• Turnersville

• West Deptford

• Willingboro

• Women’s Center at Cross Keys

• Women’s Center at Medford

• Women’s Center at Voorhees

Bone Density (DEXA) Patient Reviews

South Jersey Radiology provides inviting outpatient facilities accompanied by friendly and supportive staff, making for a comfortable experience for our patients.

I cannot remember the staff member’s name, but she was absolutely wonderful. She did my DEXA scan and my mammogram. She was very kind and patient, and I was in and out of there in a short amount of time. Thank you to her!

Christine

I have never had a problem getting an appointment at a time that’s convenient for me. During my last experience, they went above and beyond. My husband and I were able to schedule a PET, mammogram, ultrasound, and DEXA all for the same time!

Terry

My experience was great! I walked-in and was checked-in by one of the representatives. After 5 minutes, I was taken back for my mammogram, followed by my DEXA scan. Within 45 minutes, I was done. Everyone I encountered was very friendly and gentle.

Carmela

Very professional and extremely helpful staff Mammogram and DEXA scan were a breeze to get done! Highly recommend their Women’s Center. No long waits, everything was moving right along.

Mary Anne

I had two tests done and had conveniently made both appointments together using the online app. After completing the sign-in paperwork, I was taken back for the first one, a DEXA scan. Then, I was taken for my mammogram. I had both tests completed in a total of 40 minutes.

Susan

The staff was wonderful and the schedule was not jam packed, so they worked with me and were very accommodating, and were able to complete my mammogram and DEXA scan. The staff was very friendly, respectful, and patient.

Linda

What to expect during your Bone Density (DEXA)

When you arrive for your appointment, you will be asked to lie still on a table positioned between an X-ray and a computer-assisted detector. The detector will slowly hover over your hip and spine for roughly 10 – 20 minutes. Afterwards, our board-certified, subspecialized radiologists will interpret and analyze the results to send over to your physician. Based on the results, your physician will create a treatment plan that works for you to improve your bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.

Who needs a DEXA scan?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends bone density (DEXA) scans to help prevent fractures and bone loss for:

• Women over the age of 65.
• Women who are between the ages of 50 to 64 with certain risk factors.
• Men over the age of 70.
• Men who are between the ages of 50 to 69 with certain risk factors.
• Men and women who have a history of fractures after the age of 50.

What are the risk factors of osteoporosis?

Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but women have a higher risk than men, Here are the most common risk factors for osteoporosis:

• Aging
• Alcohol consumption
• Calcium or Vitamin D deficiency
• Certain types of medicines, including glucocorticoids
• Family history
• Lack of exercise
• Low body weight
• Smoking

Why are women at a higher risk for osteoporosis?

Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis than men for a number of reasons:

• Hormonal Changes – Menopause causes a sudden drop in estrogen levels, which can directly affect bone density. Estrogen deficiency can increase bone turnover and resorption,
• Smaller Bones – Usually, women have smaller and lighter bones than men.
• Pregnancy – The minerals in your bones may decrease after undergoing a pregnancy.
• Calcium Needs – Women need more calcium than men to maintain bone density.

How should I prepare for a DEXA scan?

Before your appointment, please follow these guidelines:

• Do not take any calcium supplements, including over-the-counter and prescription, 24 hours before your appointment.
• Avoid wearing clothing that contains metal objects including zippers, jewelry, belts, or buttons.
• Please arrive fifteen minutes prior to your appointment.

How often should I get a DEXA scan?

The frequency for bone density (DEXA) scans is determined by your overall risk factors and previous testing results. If you have healthy bone density, your physician may not recommend a follow-up scan for 15 – 20 years. If your results indicate signs of osteopenia or osteoporosis, you may need DEXA scans more routinely. Please consult with your referring physician to determine what is best for you.

Are DEXA scans covered by insurance?

South Jersey Radiology is in-network with 99% of health insurance providers. If you are unsure about our network status with your health insurance provider, please contact your provider directly. In some cases, insurance companies may attempt to tell you which radiology centers are preferred. As the patient, you have the right to choose if you would like your study performed as South Jersey Radiology.

Weather Update - Monday, January 20th

South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA) is open for normal business hours on Monday, January 20th. Patients with scheduled appointments will be notified of any changes due to the weather. Thank you!

South Jersey Radiology is back in-network with Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey have reached an agreement. SJRA will rejoin the Horizon network on January 1st, 2025. We look forward to continuing to provide the highest quality care for the thousands of patients who rely on SJRA in our Southern New Jersey community.

Our team cannot thank you enough for your support and patience during this time. The countless emails, phone calls, and social media outreach were a powerful reminder of the trust you have placed in us at SJRA to provide the highest quality care to our community.

Schedule now for appointment dates starting on 01/01/2025 by selecting an option below:

Our care team will also be in touch with you directly if your appointment was canceled previously, to get any outstanding or current imaging scheduled.

Thank you for your support and choosing us as your trust healthcare provider.

Bone Density (DEXA)