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,

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.

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

Diana Salisbury · Answer

Yes....Medicare Part B typically covers bone density tests also known as bone mass measurement\s 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

Answered by Diana Salisbury Medicare Insurance Agent

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.

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

Wild Bill Anderson · Answer

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

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.