Confused about where to go for your DEXA scan in Salt Lake City, Utah? Whether you need a bone density or body comp scan, we have you covered. Below are the most common facilities along with details about what you can expect before, during, and after the test.
Find a DEXA Scan in Salt Lake City
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What is a DEXA Scan?
A DEXA scan is a type of X-ray that is used to measure the density of bones. This information can be used to diagnose osteoporosis or to monitor the effects of treatments for this condition.
They are also used to measure body composition. This includes the amount of fat, muscle, and bone in the body. DEXA scans can be used to diagnose obesity, eating disorders, and other conditions.
What to Expect When Getting a Dexa Scan in Salt lake City, UT
When you get a DEXA scan in Salt Lake City, you can expect to have the test done at a hospital or radiology center. The test will be performed by a technologist.
You will need to remove any clothing and jewelry that might interfere with the scan. You will also need to lie still on a table during the procedure.
The DEXA scan itself is quick and painless. The entire process, from start to finish, usually takes less than 30 minutes. To read more about what the process of a DEXA scan is like, click here.
What Are the Risks of a DEXA Scan?
DEXA scans are generally safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are some risks associated with them.
The most common risk is exposure to ionizing radiation. This type of radiation can damage cells and lead to an increased risk of cancer. However, you should know that the amount of radiation emitted during a DEXA scan is very low and quite comparable to flying in an airplane.
The following groups of people should not get DEXA scans: pregnant women, children, and those who have recently had a barium enema, upper GI, or lower GI contrast study. These studies can cause artifacts that make it difficult to interpret the scan correctly.
How Often Should I Get a DEXA Scan?
For bone density, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends that women get a DEXA scan every two years starting at age 65.
For body composition, there is no consensus on how often DEXA scans should be done. However, they are often used to monitor the progress of people who are trying to lose weight or build muscle. Every 3 to 4 months is an appropriate timetable for most people.
How is a DEXA Scan in Salt Lake City Performed?
Before the Scan
The technician will need your name, height, and weight before the procedure begins. They will also ask you to remove any jewelry or other metal objects. Wear comfortable clothing during the test.
During The Scan
For the duration of the test, you will need to lie down on a padded table. You must remain perfectly still with your arms resting at your sides and thumbs and toes pointed up toward the ceiling.
The DEXA machine uses two x-ray beams that pass through both your bones and soft tissue. Depending on the type of tissue, some absorb the beam more quickly than others.
The DEXA machine uses this information to create a computer-generated image of your bones and soft tissue.
After the Scan
DEXA scans are non-invasive and have no required recovery time, so you can go about your day as usual immediately afterward.
If you have osteoporosis, your doctor will create a treatment plan to reduce the likelihood of fractures.
You will receive a printout of your body composition scan before you leave. The technician can explain the results to you and point out any trends in the graphs.
How Much Does a DEXA Scan in Salt Lake City Cost?
I always recommend checking with your insurance provider before getting a bone density scan, especially if you’re in Salt Lake City. I’ve found that most of the time, these types of scans are covered by insurance when they’re scheduled with a doctor’s referral.
Body Fat Scans Are Not Covered by Most Insurance Companies
If you’re not familiar with an HSA, it’s a savings account that you can use to cover medical expenses tax-free. I was able to put funds from my employer-sponsored HSA toward the scanning fee for my first DEXA scan in Salt Lake City, which cost me $107. Each subsequent scan only set me back $87 out of pocket.
Some institutions charge an initial consultation fee of $65, and then a reduced rate for follow-up sessions. By doing your research, you may be able to find even lower rates.
Preparing for a DEXA Scan in Salt lake City
You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for a DEXA scan. You can go about your normal routine of eating, drinking, and exercising.
There are no dietary, beverage, or physical activity restrictions before or after your DEXA scan. You’re even allowed to have coffee until your scheduled scan. Although, we recommend that you generally avoid taking calcium supplements or antacids for 24 hours beforehand.
Where to Find a DEXA Scan in Salt Lake City
If you live in or near Salt Lake City, you can easily get a DEXA scan.
Here are a few places to consider booking a DEXA scan:
- Intermountain Healthcare
- University of Utah Health
- St. Mark’s Hospital
- Salt Lake Imaging Centers
- Fitnesity
- Salt Lake Regional Medical Center
You can find DEXA scans at several other hospitals and imaging centers across Utah.
Find out if your health insurance policy covers DEXA scans, and ask them to give you a list of in-network providers if they do.
You can also search for DEXA scan providers on the American College of Radiology website.
DEXA Scan in Salt Lake City – Conclusion
DEXA scans are a painless, non-invasive way to assess your risk for developing osteoporosis. If you’re over the age of 50, or if you have a family history of the disease, talk to your doctor about whether a DEXA scan is right for you.
If you live in or near Salt Lake City, there are several DEXA scan providers to choose from. Check with your insurance company to see if the scan is covered under your policy. And, be sure to ask about any discounts or special rates that may be available.