DXA Information
If you’ve been referred for a DXA scan at an InHealth Community Diagnostic Centre, you may be wondering what happens next. We understand that patients may be anxious about the scan and/or the process. Don’t worry, we have created lots of information here, so you can know what to expect. You will also receive this information in the post soon after your appointment is booked.
About your DXA scan
What is a DXA scan?
A DXA scan is a painless test that measures the density of bones. DXA stands for dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Generally, the denser your bones are the stronger they are, and the less likely they are to break. DXA scans help find out whether you have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing it.
Who should be scanned?
Bone density assessment should ideally take place in those at risk of osteoporosis to identify early bone loss, take action to improve this and prevent fractures. Your GP/Referring Clinician will have assessed you as being at risk from osteoporosis.
Are there any side effects?
A DXA scan involves a low dose of X-rays (less than a normal X-ray) being passed across the body. X-rays are a form of radiation. Everybody receives a small amount of radiation from the environment every day. The radiation received from your scan is very small and would be less than the amount you would be exposed to on a transatlantic flight.
Preparing for your scan
There is a medical questionnaire below. You will also receive a copy in the post. You must complete and bring a copy with you to the appointment. If you cannot complete all the questions the radiographer at the unit will be able to help you.
If you have a disability, we can make reasonable adjustments to help you access your appointment more easily. If you would like any support, for example if you plan to attend with a carer or you may need extra time or help, please contact us on 0333 202 0300 to discuss your requirements.
Please do not bring any valuable items, or jewellery which you may be asked to remove, to your appointment. We cannot be held responsible for their loss or damage.
If you are, or suspect that you may be pregnant, please tell the radiographer before the scan is carried out.
Your appointment
If you are unable to attend or need to rearrange your appointment, please have your NHS number to hand and call us on 0333 202 0300. Failure to do so not only deprives another patient of being seen but may also result in your referral being cancelled and returned to the care of your referring clinician.
Please ensure you arrive 15 minutes before the appointment time, late arrival may result in your appointment being rescheduled for another date. Please ensure you are not accompanied by children under the age of 16.
On arrival one of our staff will explain the procedure to you and answer any further questions you may have. You may be required to undress for the examination if your clothing has metal attachments otherwise you will be able to remain fully dressed.
Giving consent
This information is intended to provide you with an overview of the examination that you are to receive. Prior to any medical procedure being carried out, the healthcare professional conducting the procedure will describe the nature of the examination or treatment you are to receive. It is your right to be given sufficient information to be able to make an informed decision as to whether you wish to continue with the examination or to refuse to undergo the procedure. Please ask any questions you may have.
This examination requires your verbal consent only.
InHealth has a strict policy regarding patient confidentiality which means that we never share information about patients with anyone/organisation that does not need to know about the patient’s clinical condition. Read our Privacy Policy.
After your scan
The procedure will take usually take between ten and twenty minutes.
There are no after effects from the scan. You can return to your normal activities as soon as the scan is over.
The results will be sent to your GP/Referring Clinician, the staff on site will be able to advise on timescales for the report being available to your referrer.
Patient Information Leaflets
You can read and/or download our DXA patient leaflets below. You will also receive paper copies in the post. Please print and bring the completed patient questionnaire to your appointment.