Diagnostic Bone Density Scan in Vancouver
Protecting Your Strength and Independence
At Lifespan Medical, we believe prevention is one of the most powerful tools in protecting long-term health. That’s why every Bone Density Scan is more than just imaging — it’s a complete bone health assessment.
Your diagnostic scan begins with a review of your medical history and any concerns you may have about your bone health. A comfortable, non-invasive scan is then performed using advanced DEXA technology to measure bone density in key areas such as the hips and spine. This state-of-the-art system provides precise results with very low radiation exposure.
A trained technician will conduct your scan, your results will be reviewed by a specialist, you will receive a detailed diagnostic report summarizing your results. We recommend sharing this report with your primary care provider, who can advise you on any prevention or treatment steps that may be appropriate.
Book now to secure your spot this week!
Lifespan Medical is a private clinic and operates on a private-pay model. As such, services provided here are not billed to MSP, and patients are responsible for the cost of the screening.
BONE DENSITY SCANNING COST IS $200
How We Screen for Bone Density at Lifespan Medical
Reviewing Your History and Bone Concerns
Your appointment begins with a brief review of your health history. Our certified technician will then guide you through a comfortable, non-invasive DEXA bone density scan, which measures bone density in areas most at risk of fracture, including the hips and spine.
The scan takes approximately 15 minutes and uses extremely low radiation.
Once complete, a Lifespan technician will review your results and provide with a diagnostic report within a week.
Bone Density Scanning with DEXA Technology
Bone Density Scanning is a non-invasive method that uses dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to precisely measure the strength of your bones. At Lifespan Medical, we use a state-of-the-art DEXA system — the gold standard for bone health assessment — to evaluate areas most prone to fracture, including the hips and spine.
Bone density scans are especially valuable for women over 50, those with a family history of osteoporosis, or individuals with risk factors such as low body weight, smoking, or long-term steroid use.
Diagnostic Bone Density Report
Following your scan, we will email you a detailed written report, reviewed and signed by a licensed specialist.
We recommend that you share the report with your primary care provider, who can interpret the findings in the context of your overall health and advise on any next steps that may be appropriate.
Program Details
Bone Density Scanning
$200
What’s Next?
Your Health, Our Answers
What is a bone density (DEXA) scan?
A DEXA scan is a quick, low-dose X-ray that measures how strong your bones are. It helps detect osteopenia and osteoporosis.
Who should consider a DEXA scan?
Adults 50+; anyone with a history of fractures after minor falls; people with risk factors like early menopause, low body weight, long-term steroid use, thyroid or parathyroid conditions, certain GI disorders, smoking, or heavy alcohol use.
Is there any preparation?
Wear comfortable clothing without metal (no zippers, buttons, belts).
Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before your scan (unless your clinician advises otherwise).
If you’ve had a barium study or CT with contrast in the last 1–2 weeks, let us know so we can schedule appropriately.
Please arrive 15 minutes early.
Is the scan painful?
No—DEXA is non-invasive and painless. You’ll lie still on a padded table while the scanner passes over you.
How much radiation is used?
Very little—typically less than a day of natural background radiation. It’s far lower than a standard chest X-ray.
Will my results be shared with anyone?
No. Your bone density scan results are confidential and will only be provided directly to you in a written report signed by a licensed specialist. They are not automatically shared with any other healthcare providers. We recommend that you share your report with your primary care provider so they can review the findings and advise you on any appropriate next steps.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed. You can book directly with Lifespan Medical. Our focus is on making preventative care accessible and easy to schedule — especially if you have risk factors.
However, we recommend that you share your results with your primary care provider so they can review it and advise you on any appropriate next steps.
How often should I repeat the test?
Most people repeat DEXA every 1–2 years, depending on age, results, medications, and risk factors. Your recommended follow-up date will be included in your report.
Is this screening covered by MSP?
Lifespan Medical is a private clinic and operates on a private-pay model. As such, services provided here are not billed to MSP, and patients are responsible for the cost of the screening. Payment will be due on the date of the appointment.
What if my results show low bone density?
We recommend that you share your report with your primary care physician. They will be able to review the findings in the context of your overall health and advise you on any appropriate next steps or treatment options.
How do I book at Lifespan Medical?
We will be posting booking dates shortly, but we welcome you to join our waitlist.
What if I’ve recently had another X-ray or CT?
Tell us the date and type of imaging. Some contrast agents can temporarily affect DEXA readings; we’ll schedule accordingly.
Can men get osteoporosis too?
Yes. While osteoporosis is more common in women, men can also develop it—especially older men, or those with certain medical conditions or medications that affect bone health.
Can lifestyle changes really improve bone density?
Yes. Weight-bearing and resistance exercise, good nutrition, adequate vitamin D and calcium, and limiting alcohol and smoking can all improve bone strength and reduce fracture risk.
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple. Just book an appointment through our website. Fee free to contact us if you have any questions!
Are you accepting patients?
Yes, Lifespan Medical is now open and actively accepting new patients. You can join our Bone Density Scanning today to access private, preventative, and personalized health care. Appointments are available shortly—our team is ready to welcome you.
What do the fees for Lifespan Medical programs cover?
Lifespan Medical’s Fees are strictly for uninsured health services (these are services that are not insured under the Medical Services Plan (“MSP”) of British Columbia). In the course of providing Lifespan Medical’s Services, our staff may identify the need for medical services that are insured under MSP. They may be available and willing to provide such medical services and bill MSP if you are registered with MSP.
Are insured physician services included in the Lifespan Medical program enrollment?
No, enrollment in a Lifespan Medical Program is not a precondition to access insured physician services. Insured physician visits and other publicly covered services will be billed directly to the provincial health insurance plan if you are registered with MSP. Please note that if you chose to receive any insured medical services you will have to provide your BC health number and a consent to the physician. Lifespan Medical’s Programs focus on providing additional, uninsured care.
Join the Waitlist
Peace of mind starts with a simple check.
Join the waitlist for your bone density scan now.