For a DEXA Scan in New York City, there are plenty of options. You can find DEXA Scans for body composition or bone density in the city and the greater New York metropolitan area. Below I will share where to get a DEXA Scan in NYC, what to expect, and other FAQs.
Find a DEXA Scan in NYC
For “DEXA Scan in NYC”, see the map below…
What is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan is a medical imaging procedure that uses low-dose x-rays to measure bone density and/or body composition. DEXA stands for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry.
DEXA scans are used to diagnose osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak due to loss of bone mass. They can also be used to monitor osteoporosis progression and assess the effectiveness of treatments for the condition.
DEXA scans can also be used to measure body fat percentage. This information can be used to assess an individual’s risk for obesity-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes. Many gymgoers and fitness enthusiasts use them to measure body fat and lean body mass to determine if their workout program is effective.
What to Expect When Getting a Dexa Scan in NYC
When getting a DEXA scan in NYC, you can expect to have the scan performed by a qualified medical professional. The DEXA scan procedure is quick and easy, and there is no prep required beforehand.
During the DEXA scan, you will lie down on a table while the machine moves over your body. The DEXA scan is painless and involves a minimal amount of radiation exposure.
After the DEXA scan, you will be able to go about your day as normal.
What Are the Risks of a DEXA Scan?
DEXA scans are generally safe and have few risks. The low-dose radiation exposure from DEXA scans is not known to cause any harm.
There is a very small risk that DEXA scans could overdiagnose osteoporosis in people who do not have the condition. This can lead to unnecessary treatment with medications that carry their own risks.
People with certain medical conditions, such as cancer, may be advised to avoid DEXA scans due to the risk of cancer progression. DEXA scans should also be avoided during pregnancy. There are DEXA scan alternatives for both bone density and body composition.
How Often Should I Get a DEXA Scan?
For bone density cases, DEXA scans are usually recommended every one to two years for people at risk for osteoporosis. This includes postmenopausal women, men over age 65, and people with a family history of osteoporosis.
For body composition, DEXA scan frequency will depend on your fitness goals. If you are trying to lose weight, you may want to get DEXA scans every few months to track your progress. Once per quarter is generally a good frequency.
How is a DEXA Scan in NYC Performed?
Before the Scan
You don’t need to do anything special before a DEXA scan. You can eat and drink normally, and there is no need to fast.
The technician will ask you some basic questions such as height and weight. They will also instruct you to remove eyewear, hearing devices, jewelery, belts, keys, phone, or anything metal.
During The Scan
You will lie down on a padded table during the scanning table. The machine will move over your body, and you may be asked to hold your breath at certain times. The entire DEXA scan procedure takes about 15 minutes. The only requirement is that you lie still.
After the Scan
You will be able to go about your day as normal after the DEXA scan. There are no side effects or discomfort associated with the procedure.
For bone density scans, the results will be interpreted by a doctor, and they will discuss the findings with you. The DEXA scan is just one tool used to diagnose osteoporosis, so the doctor will take into account your medical history and other risk factors before making a diagnosis.
For body composition scans, the results are printed out and given to you immediately after.
How Much Does a DEXA Scan in NYC Cost?
DEXA scans in New York City can vary in cost depending on the facility where you have the scan performed. The price may also depend on whether you are getting a bone density or body composition DEXA scan.
Generally, a bone density scan is covered 100% by insurance. If you are unsure, you should contact your insurance provider.
Body Fat Scans in New York Are Not Covered by Most Insurance Companies
The first time I got a DEXA scan for body composition in New York City, it cost me $107. After that initial visit, each subsequent visit only cost me $87. While my insurance doesn’t cover a body fat scan I use the money on my tax-deferred Health Savings Account (HSA) that I have through my employer.
It may also be worth looking at local universities and gyms to compare pricing for body scans. In my research in the US, I discovered one college that offers an initial scan for $65 and subsequent visits for $50 each.
Preparing for a DEXA Scan in NYC
There is no specific prep required for a DEXA scan in NYC. You can eat and drink normally and there is no need to fast. Wear loose-fitting clothing because you’ll need to remove all clothing and jewelry from the waist up for the scan. Before the scanning starts you will be asked to remove any eyeglasses or hearing aids.
Before the scan, you can have a normal day. That means drinking your coffee, going to the gym, and eating normally.
Where to Find a DEXA Scan in NYC
There are many DEXA scan locations in NYC. Here are a few places to get a DEXA scan in NYC:
- NYU Langone Radiology—Manhattan
- NYU Winthrop Hospital—Mineola, Long Island
- Mount Sinai West—Manhattan
- Lenox Hill Radiology—Manhattan
- Montefiore Medical Center—Bronx
These are just a few of the DEXA scan locations in NYC. You can also search for DEXA scans on websites like Zocdoc.com or call local radiology centers. Plenty of other places offer them as well such as universities, some gyms, and specialized services like DexaFit.
DEXA Scan in NYC – Conclusion
A DEXA scan in NYC is a simple and quick way to measure your bone density or body composition. The DEXA scan is painless and there is no prep required. DEXA scans are covered by insurance for bone density measurement, but body composition DEXA scans are not usually covered. You can find DEXA scan locations throughout NYC, and the cost of a DEXA scan ranges from $65-$107.
