How to Get a DEXA Scan
DEXA scans are often done at radiology labs, but many of those labs won’t see you without a doctor referral.
There are two workarounds to get a DEXA:
Schedule via a third-party cash-pay service like Dexafit or Fitnescity. Both of these companies work with partners to deliver DEXA scans as well as other performance tests like VO2 max and resting metabolic rate (RMR). Dexafit is slightly more convenient because you can schedule online vs calling the partner provider. The test should cost around $150-200 and take a half hour.
Check with your local university. Some universities allow you to volunteer for free DEXA scans by students in training. UCSD is an example. Google your local university’s radiology or radiography program and reach out to ask if they might take volunteers for DEXA training.
Call your local radiology lab. I’d only do this if you don’t have a convenient option from Dexafit or Fitnescity or a free option from your local university. Most labs aren’t used to the question of doing a DEXA without referral, and they want to put the process through insurance.