Bone Mineral
Density & DEXA
Diagnostic bone density scanning for osteoporosis detection, fracture risk assessment, and body composition.
Clinic Location
Bone Mineral Density & DEXA scanning is available at our Nepean clinic.
1545 Merivale Rd, Nepean, ON K2G 3J4
Regular Clinic Hours
Booking Office Hours
Contact
What Is Bone Mineral Density Testing?
BMD testing — also called DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) — measures the density and strength of your bones. Because bone loss often develops silently with age, early detection is critical. The test helps physicians diagnose bone loss, assess fracture risk, and monitor treatment effectiveness.
Your BMD Appointment & How to Prepare
How to Prepare for Your BMD Scan
Preparation instructions vary depending on the exam. Please follow the instructions provided when your appointment is booked. Bring your health card, requisition, and any relevant documents. If you are unsure how to prepare, contact Merivale Medical Imaging before your appointment.
View Test PreparationsDownload the MMI Requisition Form
Merivale Medical Imaging accepts requisitions from all licensed physicians. Our editable PDF requisition can be downloaded, completed, and sent with your patient before their appointment. Requisitions are accepted at any licensed healthcare facility, including hospitals and independent health facilities (IHFs).
Editable PDF Requisition
Complete and send with your patient prior to their imaging appointment.
Download RequisitionWhat Does Your BMD Score Mean?
DEXA results are reported as a T-score — a comparison of your bone density to a healthy young adult average. The scale below shows what each range means for your bone health.
T-score interpretation is provided for patient education only. Your physician will review your full report and discuss results with you.
DEXA whole Body Composition
Merivale Medical Imaging also provides DEXA Total Body Composition scanning — the gold standard for measuring fat mass, lean mass, and bone mineral content. This scan delivers detailed metrics used for health monitoring, athletic performance tracking, and nutrition planning.
Book a DEXA Scan
No requisition required. Contact our Nepean clinic to schedule your appointment.
Book Now →BMD Testing Frequency
Ontario Ministry of Health guidelines govern how often OHIP covers bone mineral density testing.
OHIP Coverage PolicyBaseline & Repeat Testing Limits
Baseline & Repeat Testing: The Ontario Ministry of Health permits one baseline BMD test for screening. Subsequent BMD testing is covered once every 36 months, with the next scan after 60 months. Patients who received BMD testing within the past 36 months are financially responsible for the exam.
High-Risk Patients: For patients receiving osteoporosis treatment or identified as high risk, one BMD scan every 12 months is permitted. Please speak with your referring physician to confirm your eligibility before booking.
High-Risk Factors — Qualifying for Annual Testing
Patients with one or more of the following may be eligible for BMD scans every 12 months.
Patients actively receiving osteoporosis medication or being monitored for treatment response qualify for annual BMD testing.
Patients on corticosteroid therapy for 3 or more months are at elevated fracture risk and may qualify for more frequent testing.
Imaging Services at MMI
Advanced outpatient diagnostic imaging across Ottawa and the Ottawa Valley.
