Bone Densitometry

Yes, you will need a requisition/referral from your Doctor for all Bone Densitometry exams.

Yes, Bone Densitometry requires an appointment, we offer appointments at both our Oakridge Mall and 5752 Victoria Drive offices. Many patients will have a Bone Density test every few years and you must return to the same location each time, so please pick the most convenient office first time.

MSP covers a Bone Density Scan as frequently as every 3 years, however certain medications allow for you to have the scan more frequently than that. You do not need to have the scan every 3 years, some people may only have it once, so you should discuss with your Doctor the right frequency for you.

There is no preparation and you can eat and drink normally on the day of the scan. Please do not take any calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to your appointment, you may take it after your scan if needed.

No, due to the area that is examined, this test is not suitable for those who are pregnant.

Unfortunately, our equipment is only capable of scanning patients under 300lbs.

You will fill out a small questionnaire and then change into a gown if necessary, the scan itself only takes 10 – 15 minutes, but plan to spend 30-40 minutes in our office.

No, you will not need an injection and you will not feel the examination taking place.

No, Bone Density machines have an arm that moves over you. During set up this will pass over your head to move to the center of your body. Once the scan is done it moves back over your head out of the way. During the scan you will be looking at the ceiling as if you were laying in bed.

No, Bone Densitometry only measures how strong the bones are, and does not diagnose the cause of pain in those areas. The machine can only scan specific body parts to obtain a bone density reading. If you are concerned about pain anywhere in your body, including those areas the scan covers, you should discuss with your Doctor.

Greig Associates is very multicultural, and our staff have learned small phrases in many languages to assist those that are not confident in their English abilities as best as we can. You can help your relative by going over the points below;

• Ensure your relative brings their BC Services Card and referral paper. If their Doctor has faxed the paper to us, please call to ensure we have it.
• Your relative will need to present their BC Services Card to both the administrative staff at check in, and to the Technologist to confirm their identity before having their Bone Densitometry scan.
• Ensure your relative understands only their back and hip will be scanned, that they may need to remove their shirt, bra and pants/skirt and change into a medical gown.
• The scan is performed lying flat on their back. Please make sure your relative understands that the Technologist may touch their leg or hip to assist in positioning.

The amount of Radiation received during a Bone Density scan is extremely low, lower than a standard X-Ray test in most cases. You can read more about the safety of radiation at https://www.iaea.org/resources/rpop/patients-and-public/x-rays. If you have any concerns about the amount of radiation or number of X-Rays you are having, please speak to your Doctor.