Bone Mass Measurement

What it is:

Bone mass measurements help your doctor tell if you are at risk for a broken bone (fracture). A disease that makes your bones weak can make them break more easily. This disease is called osteoporosis.

A simple scan can tell how dense your bones are. The test is painless, quick and accurate.

Why screening is important:

This test can find osteoporosis before a bone breaks, and it can predict your chances of breaking a bone in the future. The results will help you and your doctor choose the best way to keep your bones strong.

Who is covered:

People at risk for osteoporosis are covered for this screening. Your risk for osteoporosis is higher if you…

  • are age 50 or older
  • are a woman
  • have a family history of broken bones
  • have a personal history of broken bones
  • are White or Asian
  • are small-boned
  • have low body weight (less than about 127 pounds)
  • smoke or drink a lot
  • have a low-calcium diet

How often it’s covered:

The screening is covered once every 24 months (more often if medically necessary). Ask your doctor how to get this screening.

What you pay:

You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved cost for this service — after you meet your Part B deductible ($135 in 2008).

Learn more about bone mass measurement on Medicare.gov.

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Information on this web site was compiled from approved materials of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.