My doctor recommended a bone density test. Is this considered preventive care under Medicare?

Question

Larry Dalton · Accepted Answer

Yes, but it is covered under Medicare with a doctor's order.  This test is generally covered only once every 24 months.

Melonie Wood · Answer

Yes, bone density tests are considered a preventive service under Medicare Part B, and are covered once every 24 months (or more often if medically necessary) if you meet certain criteria,

Cynthia Nakaya · Answer

This is considered preventative care under Medicare part B, and can be done once every 24 months, or more if your doctor says it's medically necessary. If you have any of the following, your doctor is more likely to recommend it be done more often:
1-You're a woman whose doctor determines you are estrogen deficient and are at risk for osteoporosis
2-Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures
3-You're taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs, or are planning to begin this treatment
4-You've been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism
5-You're being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working

There may be other reasons, depending on your personal medical history, that would cause your doctor to request more frequent scans.

Alyssa Gonzales · Answer

You bet! The key words are preventative and that it's medically necessary. It’s usually covered once every 24 months, or more often if medically needed. As long as your provider accepts Medicare assignment, you won’t pay anything out of pocket.

Answered by Alyssa Gonzales on April 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, CO, IA & 9 other states

Answered by Alyssa Gonzales Medicare Insurance Agent

Wild Bill Anderson · Answer

Yes. We can talk about the many preventative test available.  Think of these tests like a engine diagnostics.

My doctor recommended a bone density test. Is this considered preventive care under Medicare?

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My doctor recommended a bone density test. Is this considered preventive care under Medicare?

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