Talk to your doctor about getting a bone mass measurement – it may be free. If you're at risk for osteoporosis, this test can help you prevent or detect this disease at an early stage when treatment works best. Learn more about what could put you at risk for osteoporosis and how to prevent or treat it at the National Osteoporosis Foundation or the Centers for Disease Control.
How often is it covered?
Once every 24 months (more often if medically necessary)
Who's eligible?
All qualified people with Medicare who are at risk for osteoporosis and meet one of the following 5 criteria:
- A woman whose doctor is treating her for estrogen-deficiency and at risk for osteoporosis based on her medical history or other findings
- A person with vertebral abnormalities as demonstrated by an x-ray
- A person getting steroid treatments
- A person with hyperparathyroidism
- A person taking an osteoporosis drug
Your costs in Original Medicare
You pay nothing for this test if the doctor accepts assignment.
Osteoporosis Resources