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Bone Density (DEXA) Screening at Covenant Health

Bone density tests are crucial for early detection and management of osteoporosis. Schedule yours today.

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What is a Bone Density Test?

A bone density test is a procedure used to measure the density and strength of bones. This test helps determine if you have osteoporosis – a disease that causes bones to become more fragile and more likely to break. The most common type of bone density test is dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (or DEXA).

Doctors use bone density testing to:

  • Identify decreases in bone density before you break a bone
  • Determine your risk of broken bones (fractures)
  • Confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis if you’ve experienced broken bones
  • Monitor osteoporosis treatment
female patient lying down to get bone density testing and nurse in blue scrubs helping

Who is Eligible for a Bone Density Test?

Although osteoporosis is more common in postmenopausal women, men ages 70 and older can also can develop the condition. Regardless of your sex or age, your doctor may recommend a bone density test if you’ve:

Lost height. People who have lost at least 1.6 inches (4 centimeters) in height may have experienced compression fractures in their spines.

Fractured a bone. Fragility fractures occur when a bone becomes so fragile that it breaks much more easily than expected.

Taken certain drugs. Some medicines may increase your risk, such as long-term use of corticosteroids, thyroid hormone replacement medications and immunosuppressant drugs.

A family history of osteoporosis. There is a strong genetic component to osteoporosis, so having a family history of bone disease may increase your risk.

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Request Bone Density Screening

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Our Bone Density Screening Locations

Bone density screenings require a physician order. Ask a primary care provider about scheduling a screening at one of our locations below, or contact our call center at (865) 374-0411 for assistance finding a provider.

Accepted Insurances

Commercial Plans:

  • Aetna
  • BlueCross – Network P and Network S
  • Cigna
  • Humana
  • Multiplan and PHCS
  • UnitedHealthcare (some exceptions apply)

Healthcare Exchanges:

  • Ambetter
  • BlueCross– Network S
  • Cigna – Connect IFP

Medicare Plans:

  • American Health Plan – ISNP
  • Amerigroup – Amerivantage Medicare/DSNP
  • BlueCross – BlueAdvantage
  • BlueCross – Blue Essential HMO SNP
  • Cigna Healthspring
  • Devoted Health
  • Farm Bureau
  • Humana
  • Medicare – Traditional
  • NHC Advantage ISNP
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • WellCare

Military/Veterans:

  • Optum VA CCN
  • TriCare – Humana

TennCare:

Amerigroup – TennCare and CoverKids

BlueCare

BlueCare Plus DSNP

BCBS TennCare Select and CoverKids

UnitedHealthcare – Community Plan, CoverKids and DSNP

Prepare for Your Appointment

Patient Forms

Prepare for your visit early by filling out the following forms if applicable.

Visit Reminders

We ask that you please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. Please bring the following items with you to your visit:

  • Your current health insurance information

  • Your current Photo ID

  • Any medications you are currently taking in their original containers or in a list with dosages and times

Please note: In order to provide efficient care for all of our patients, you may be asked to reschedule your appointment if you do not arrive at least 30 minutes early.

Telehealth

Telehealth — sometimes called telemedicine — lets patients receive medical care virtually without an in-person office visit. Telehealth is done primarily online with internet access on your computer, tablet, or smartphone.

You can schedule a virtual appointment by calling our office or by requesting a visit through our secure patient portal, MyCovenantHealth. Your provider will review your current condition to determine if a telehealth appointment is right for you.

 

Telehealth Services

Frequently Asked Questions

We are committed to patient education and transparency in our care. If you can’t find an answer to your question, please contact us for a consultation.

What happens during the screening?

During your bone density screening, a special machine uses low-dose X rays to measure the amount of calcium and other minerals in your bones. The test is non-invasive, painless and typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes. Common measurement sites include the spine, hip or forearm, as they are more prone to fractures resulting from osteoporosis. 

How to prepare for a bone density screening?

Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, belts or buttons. You may be advised to avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test.

Do I need a physician referral?

Yes, you will need a physician referral for a bone density test. Ask your provider about scheduling a screening during your annual physical exam, or speak with a call center representative who can help you schedule a screening.

Does insurance cover bone density screening?

Many health insurance companies and Medicare cover bone density tests as part of preventive care, but as with any coverage, different companies may have different requirements.

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