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

Question

Marta Iris González · Accepted Answer

Yes — a bone density test (DEXA scan) is considered preventive care under Medicare.

 Medicare Part B covers a bone mass measurement once every 24 months (2 years) if you’re eligible — or more often if medically necessary.

You qualify if you’re at risk for osteoporosis, for example if:
	•	You’re a woman who is estrogen-deficient and at risk for osteoporosis
	•	You have vertebral abnormalities or fractures
	•	You’re taking (or have taken) long-term steroid medications
	•	You have primary hyperparathyroidism

 Cost: If your doctor accepts Medicare assignment, you pay $0 for this test.

It’s a great preventive benefit to help detect bone loss early and protect your bone health!

Donnie Vermillion · Answer

Yes, it is considered a preventive service. 

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers this test once every 24 months (or more often if medically necessary) if you meet one or more of these conditions:

You’re a woman whose doctor determines you’re estrogen-deficient and at risk for osteoporosis, based on your medical history and other findings.
Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures.
You’re taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs or are planning to begin this treatment.
You’ve been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism.
You’re being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working.

You pay nothing for this test if the doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment.

Fred Manas · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B typically covers bone density tests as a preventive service under certain conditions. Medicare will cover a bone density test once every 24 months for routine screening, especially for women at risk for osteoporosis due to estrogen deficiency or medical history. 
Elaboration:
Preventive Care:
Medicare Part B covers routine preventive and outpatient services, including tests ordered by your doctor to diagnose or monitor certain health conditions. Bone density tests are considered a preventive service because they help diagnose and manage osteoporosis, a condition that can increase the risk of fractures. 
Coverage Criteria:
To qualify for coverage, you typically need to meet one or more of the following criteria:
You are a woman whose doctor has determined you are estrogen deficient and at risk for osteoporosis. 
Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures. 
You are taking or will begin taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs. 
You have been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism. 
You are being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working. 
Frequency:
Generally, Medicare will cover a bone density test once every 24 months for preventive screening. However, more frequent testing may be covered if your doctor deems it medically necessary, for example, if you are being monitored for osteoporosis treatment. 
Medically Necessary:
If a bone density test is ordered to diagnose a specific condition or monitor a patient's condition, it might be considered a medically necessary service, even if it doesn't qualify as a routine preventive screening.

Brian Leichner · Answer

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers this test once every 24 months (or more often if medically necessary) if you meet one or more of these conditions:

You’re a woman whose doctor determines you’re estrogen-deficient and at risk for osteoporosis, based on your medical history and other findings.
Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures.
You’re taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs or are planning to begin this treatment.
You’ve been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism.
You’re being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working.

SO, if you have a Medicare supplement plan you may have to pay the Part B Deductible of $257 in 2025.  If you have a Medicare Advantage plan it is probably covered in full under a Preventative benefit.  

Questions?  You can contact me, Brian Leichner.  My agency is licensed in all 50 States.

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.

Marie Goldbeck-Strunk · Answer

Yes, a doctor-recommended bone density test is considered a preventive care service under Medicare Part B, which covers it once every 24 months if you are at risk for osteoporosis or another related condition. Eligibility for coverage is based on certain factors like being an estrogen-deficient woman at risk, having signs of osteoporosis or vertebral abnormalities on an X-ray, being on steroid medications, or having primary hyperparathyroidism. For your test to be covered, the doctor must certify that it's medically necessary and meets one of these criteria.

Answered by Marie Goldbeck-Strunk on August 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in IA, AZ, DE & 13 other states

Answered by Marie Goldbeck-Strunk Medicare Insurance Agent

George Ibanez · Answer

Medicare part B covers bone density tests as a preventive service with a $0 copay out of your pocket except for your $283 deductible for the year, however your doctor has to order the test due to at least one of the following reasons.
1-Estrogen deficiency
2-Vertebral abnormalities.
3-Steroid use.
4-Hyperparathyroidism.
5-Treatment monitoring.

Jeffrey Horn · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B considers bone density tests a preventive service and covers them, typically once every 24 months, at no cost to you if your doctor accepts assignment. To qualify, a doctor must determine that you are at risk for osteoporosis or fractures.

Answered by Jeffrey Horn on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in IL, AZ, CO & 17 other states

Answered by Jeffrey Horn Medicare Insurance Agent

Gisele Salas · Answer

Medicare Part B completely covers DEXA bone density scans every 24 months for eligible individuals. To pay nothing out-of-pocket, ensure your doctor and imaging facility accept "Medicare assignment". Medicare covers this test if you are a woman 65 or older, taking long-term steroids, or have specific medical conditions.

Answered by Gisele Salas on July 13, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Gisele Salas Medicare Insurance Agent

Barbara Barnes, CMIP® · Answer

That depends on WHY the doctor is ordering the test. If you’ve never had problems and they’re checking to make sure everything is ok, that should be coded as preventative and covered at 100% as a preventative test. If you have a diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis and they’re checking the progression of the disease, that should be coded as a diagnostic test and covered as a diagnostic test under your insurance plan. Always discuss the coding of tests with your doctor BEFORE the test is done to avoid surprise bills down the road.

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on June 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandra (Sandy) Steffy · Answer

Yes — a bone density test is considered a Medicare preventive service when you meet Medicare’s risk‑based criteria, and in those cases you pay $0 as long as your provider accepts assignment. Medicare covers the test once every 24 months (or more often if medically necessary).

Answered by Sandra (Sandy) Steffy on March 30, 2026

Agent Licensed in VA, AL, DC & 7 other states

Answered by Sandra (Sandy) Steffy Medicare Insurance Agent

Amy Jones · Answer

Medicare typically covers one preventative bone density screening exam every 24 months if you are considered at risk for bone fractures. Your doctor should be able to determine whether or not you meet the eligibility criteria of being at risk and if eligible, you should be able to get a bone density screening every two years with $0 copay.

Answered by Amy Jones on March 30, 2026

Broker Licensed in WV, AL, AZ & 29 other states

Answered by Amy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Sam Silva · Answer

Yes, Medicare covers a bone density test as preventive care once every 24 months if you meet certain risk factors, such as being at risk for osteoporosis or having a history of fractures. If your doctor orders the test for medical reasons beyond routine screening, it may be covered more frequently. It’s important to check with your provider and Medicare to confirm coverage details and avoid unexpected costs.

Answered by Sam Silva on June 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, GA, NJ & 7 other states

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Mark Bilgere · Answer

Possibly. A bone density test is considered preventive if you meet certain criteria. Primarily, are you at risk for osteoporosis? If so, there are still several other factors that determine your eligibility. Your provider can tell you if the meet the eligibility requirement. If you do, then yes, the bone density test is covered completely. If you don't meet the requirements, it will be paid according to whichever type of plan you have, either a Medicare supplement or and Advantage plan.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on September 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

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Howell Silverman · Answer

Bone density is covered under Medicare part b once every 24 months. If your dr accepts Medicare assignments, and it's medically necessary, you will typically pay nothing. 

There is eligibility criteria which your doctor must verify that you meet in order for it to be a Medicare covered test

Christine Brewer · Answer

Yes, a bone density test is considered preventative care under Medicare. do you have a Medicare Supplement plan, Medicare Advantage plan, or just original Medicare?

Answered by Adam Paul on October 11, 2025

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Tristan Gibbs · Answer

Yes this is covered under Medicare as it is considered preventative care. Medicare covers one screening every 24 months, unless your doctor determines it is medically necessary to do them more frequently, in which case an exception can be made.

Answered by Tristan Gibbs on April 7, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Tristan Gibbs Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Adlman · Answer

Part B of Medicare will cover a bone density test every 24 months. To qualify, you must meet certain criteria: being postmenopausal, having low estrogen levels, using long-term steroids, or having a history of bone fractures.

Answered by Steve Adlman on January 22, 2026

Broker Licensed in AL

Answered by Steve Adlman Medicare Insurance Agent

Taylor Langlois · Answer

Yes, bone density tests count as preventive care under Medicare Part B like for those at risk of osteoporosis, covered every two years with no out-of-pocket cost if your provider accepts assignment.

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

Yes, bone density screenings (AKA bone mass measurements) are considered preventative. Medicare Part B coverings these tests 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,

Clare Burley · Answer

Yes, bone density screenings are considered preventive under Medicare Part B. They are typically covered every 24 months, however they can be approved more frequently if medically necessary.

Diana Salisbury · Answer

Yes.... Medicare Part B typically covers bone density tests also known as bone mass measurements for individuals who meet certain criteria. These tests are covered once every 24 months, or more frequently if medically necessary.

Answered by Diana Salisbury on April 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, IN & MI

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Andrew Kelly · Answer

Yes, bone density tests are covered under Medicare as preventative care, once every two years. Your doctor may have to document/state that it's medically necessary.

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 TX, CO, IA & 9 other states

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Cindy Hoppe · Answer

Since your doctor recommended it, you should be covered under Medicare Part B as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. If you're in a Medicare Advantage plan, coverage rules may vary slightly, so it's wise to confirm with your plan provider.

Answered by Cindy Hoppe on November 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, IA & 8 other states

Answered by Cindy Hoppe Medicare Insurance Agent

Luke Rhoads · Answer

Yes a bone density DEXA scan is considered preventative care and would be covered for eligible individuals every 24 months.

Chauncey Bragg · Answer

The short answer is yes. Medicare will cover this test once every 24 months. However, certain criteria must be met. Your best bet would be to call your current carrier and find out what they require, as every company will have its own standards that may differ from original Medicare.

Answered by Chauncey Bragg on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Chauncey Bragg Medicare Insurance Agent

Larry Dalton · Answer

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

Michelle Ryan · Answer

A vibe density scan is considered preventative IF certain conditions are met. Such as, being at risk of Osteoporosis, spinal abnormalities, or taking steroidal medications. *Note: this is not an all inclusive list. *

Answered by Michelle Ryan on September 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, CO & FL, NC, SC & TN

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Michael Reardon · Answer

✅ Covered by: Medicare Part B
✅ Frequency: Once every 24 months (2 years) — or more often if your doctor says it’s medically necessary

Mike Alexander · Answer

Yes this is preventative procedure, however if you are on an Advantage plan, it must be pre approved and you would need to use the in network provider

Steven Lovell · Answer

Under specific circumstances, Medicare considers a bone density test as a preventative service.   They will normally cover them every 24 months.

Anthony Castelluccio · Answer

Most cases a bone density test is considered preventive care.  Just be careful if you are on a Medicare Advantage, you should stay in network.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

Yes! A bone density test is one of many listed preventative care tests covered by Medicare. Do it! I do suggest you get a list from your PCP as to that list of annual, or bi-annual, covered tests.

Carol Thompson · Answer

Bone densitometry tests should be part of preventive care as it is a test of your bone density levels. As we age we lose bone density where our bones become more brittle and prone to falls that lead to fractures. You can always check with your plan or check online for a list of the Medicare preventative tests.

Answered by Carol Thompson on August 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, LA, MI & NC, SC, VA & WI

Answered by Carol Thompson Medicare Insurance Agent

William Scott · Answer

Yes! Most Medicare Advantage plans have bone density tests and other health screenings under their Preventive Care listings. Check with your Broker to see if your Medicare Advantage plan carrier offer this service at no cost to you.

Answered by William Scott on June 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, CO, NC, OH, SC & TX

Answered by William Scott Medicare Insurance Agent

Misty Bolt · Answer

Today the question is, my doctor recommended a bone density test. Is this considered preventative care under Medicare? Great question! Yes, it is preventative and does not cost anything to have done. I do recommend it, so I hope that when your doctor recommends it, you do get it done. They might find something, and the quicker they find it, the easier it'll be to get the help you need. Thanks again for listening to Medicare Minutes with Medicare Misty.

Sandy Nelson-Tittsworth, CMIP · Answer

Yes, and it's listed under Preventative Services in all Medicare Advantage Plans Summary of Benefits.

Don Hansford · Answer

Yes it is. It is one of the screenings that Medicare recommends as we age. It is a simple, no cost scan so I would highly recommend it.

Blaine Shipe · Answer

Yes a bone density test in it’s simplest form is covered but more testing may be required which may put that test into another medical coverage category

Lowana Richardson · Answer

Normally, yes, if it is deemed medically necessary. You can find it in 42 CFR § 410.31  ) Medicare covers a medically necessary bone mass measurement if the following conditions are met:

Adam Paul · Answer

Yes, a bone density test is considered preventative care under Medicare. do you have a Medicare Supplement plan, Medicare Advantage plan, or just original Medicare?

Eli Roque · Answer

THAT IS ONE OF THE PREVENTIVE TESTING THAT IS RECOMMENDED AND PAYED FOR WITH NO COPAY BY MEDICARE AND MEDICARE ADVANTAGE ALIKE . I RECOMMENDED THAT ALL BENEFICIARIES OF BOTH ORGINAL AND MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN TAKE A SERIOUS LOOK AT THE LIST OF PREVENTIVE TESTING THAT IS COVERED BY THE PLAN AND ASK YOUR PRIMARY CARE TO GIVE YOU REFFERAL TO ALL OF THEM AND MAKE SURE TO COMPLETE THE TESTING IT CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE.!!!! ZERO COPAY FOR MOST !!

Answered by Eli Roque on August 2, 2025

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Stella Hattox · Answer

It depends on the coding that the provider puts on the claim. Doctors have a list of what is covered under " Routine Physical". Also, Medicare has updated the Routine Physical coverage list of procedures. Please check with your provider to see " why" the test is being done. Is it medically necessary?

Answered by Stella Hattox on January 1, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, AZ & 17 other states

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Thomas Magnus, RHU · Answer

Maybe - open this link for details: 

https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/bone-mass-measurements

And - open THIS link for a COMPLETE list of 2025 Medicare Approved and FREE Preventive Services - NOTE - Double Check as These Benefits may change Annually

https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-screening-services

Dennis Sullivan · Answer

Yes, this would be considered a preventive care measure under a medicare advantage plan. That is the major benefit of enrollment.

Daniel Brechin · Answer

Yes,  bone density are covered by Medicare and all Medicare Advantage and supplemental programs
No Problem

Mike Henry · Answer

Most likely. Just make sure th Dr submits it properly. Any test has to be Dr recommended and Medicare approved

Charise Karjala · Answer

Yes.  Bone density is an important metric to watch over time.  Decreased bone density can point toward illness that, when caught early, can be mitigated.

Marcie Barnes · Answer

You Medicare Advantage plan provides a list of covered preventative services.  Refer to your evidence of coverage or reach out to your insurance company for further details

Kristen Skinner · Answer

I would think so, but all Medicare Advantage plans may work differently. You might want to call your customer support and inquire. Also, you may want to call 1-800-Medicare and ask them also.

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

A bone density scan is NOT considered preventative and is not covered under Medicare., unfortunately. You have to use your Medicare Supplement or Nedicaid to pay for the scan.