DEXA Scan Singapore: Bone Density & Osteoporosis Assessment
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is the gold standard for measuring bone density and assessing osteoporosis risk. Very low radiation dose. GP consultation at Mediway + referral to our accredited imaging partner + results interpreted at Mediway follow-up.
How much does a DEXA scan cost in Singapore?
DEXA scan prices in Singapore typically range from $100 to $300 at accredited imaging partners, depending on whether one or multiple body sites (lumbar spine, hip, wrist) are scanned. Mediway GP consultation for referral is $38. All prices GST-inclusive and indicative, confirmed at booking.
What is a DEXA scan?
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) uses two low-dose X-ray beams to measure bone mineral density. It is the gold standard test recommended by the World Health Organization and the International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing fracture risk.
The scan measures bone density at the lumbar spine and hip: the two sites most prone to osteoporotic fracture. Some scans also include the forearm. Results produce a T-score (comparison to a young healthy adult) and a Z-score (comparison to age-matched peers) that inform diagnosis and treatment decisions.
DEXA is quick (10-20 minutes), painless, and uses extremely low radiation, about 0.001 mSv, roughly a few hours of natural background radiation and significantly less than a standard chest X-ray. No injections, no enclosed scanner, no sedation.
Who should have a DEXA scan?
Singapore MOH and international guidelines recommend DEXA screening for adults at risk of osteoporosis. Mediway GP will assess whether a scan is appropriate for your situation.
Standard screening recommendations:
- Women aged 65+: all women should have a baseline DEXA
- Men aged 70+: all men should have a baseline DEXA
- Post-menopausal women under 65 with additional risk factors
- Men aged 50-69 with risk factors
- Any adult who has had a low-impact fracture
Risk factors that warrant earlier DEXA:
Understanding your DEXA results
DEXA reports a T-score comparing your bone density to a healthy young adult. The World Health Organization (WHO) classification:
Normal
Bone density within the expected range. General bone-health advice: adequate calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol.
Osteopenia
Reduced bone density: not yet osteoporosis, but at elevated fracture risk. Lifestyle interventions, address underlying risk factors, repeat DEXA in 2-5 years. Medication considered if additional risk factors.
Osteoporosis
Significant bone density loss. Fracture risk is high. Treatment typically includes calcium and vitamin D, plus pharmacological therapy (bisphosphonates, denosumab, or others). Repeat DEXA in 1-2 years to monitor response.
Results also include a Z-score comparing your bone density to age-matched peers, useful for assessing whether bone loss is due to age or another cause. Your GP will interpret the full report and recommend appropriate next steps.
DEXA scan pricing
Indicative pricing at our accredited imaging partner. Actual rates confirmed at booking. All prices GST-inclusive.
Typical DEXA pricing in Singapore
- DEXA scan (spine + hip, standard protocol): $100-$250 at accredited imaging partners
- DEXA scan (multiple sites, including forearm): up to $300
- GP consultation at Mediway (for referral): $38 first visit
- Follow-up interpretation consultation: included in initial consultation fee
Payment note: Mediway charges the GP consultation fee directly. The DEXA scan itself is billed by the imaging partner (Radlink); insurance queries should be raised with them at the time of booking.
How to get a DEXA scan at Mediway
Three-step process. Assessment and interpretation at Mediway; scan at our accredited imaging partner.
Consultation ($38)
GP assesses osteoporosis risk factors, confirms DEXA is appropriate, and issues a referral letter. We advise on preparation, which is minimal for most patients.
Scan at partner centre
Attend the accredited imaging partner. Scan takes 10-20 minutes. You lie on a table while a scanner arm passes over your hip and spine. No injections, no tubes, no sedation.
Report & review at Mediway
Radiologist's report returns in 3-7 working days. Return to Mediway for follow-up. The GP explains your T-score, Z-score, and fracture risk, and recommends next steps including lifestyle measures and medication if appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
01 How much does a DEXA scan cost in Singapore?
DEXA scan prices in Singapore typically range from $100 to $300 at accredited imaging partners, depending on whether one or multiple body sites are scanned. Mediway GP consultation for referral is $38. Prices are subject to change and may vary depending on individual clinical needs. Please contact us for the latest pricing.
02 What is a DEXA scan?
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is a commonly used scan for measuring bone mineral density. It uses very low-dose X-ray to assess bone strength, diagnose osteoporosis, assess fracture risk, and monitor treatment response.
03 Is a DEXA scan safe?
Yes. DEXA uses a very low radiation dose, significantly lower than a standard chest X-ray. It is one of the lowest-dose imaging tests in routine clinical use. Suitability should still be assessed by a doctor, particularly if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
04 Who should have a DEXA scan?
DEXA is commonly considered for women aged 65+ and men aged 70+ as routine screening, and earlier if risk factors are present: post-menopausal status, previous low-impact fracture, long-term steroid use (3+ months), family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, smoking, heavy alcohol use, or certain chronic conditions. Your GP can assess whether a DEXA is appropriate for you.
05 How long does a DEXA scan take?
10-20 minutes. You lie on a table while a scanner arm passes over your hip and lumbar spine. No injections, no enclosed scanner, no preparation needed for most patients. Results return in 3-7 working days.
06 Do I need to prepare for a DEXA scan?
Minimal preparation. Avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan. Wear loose clothing without metal (zippers, buttons); a gown may be provided. Inform your doctor if you have had recent CT with contrast, nuclear medicine, or barium studies in the past week.
07 Do I need a GP referral for a DEXA scan?
Yes. A GP consultation ($38) assesses osteoporosis risk factors, checks whether DEXA is appropriate, and provides the referral letter. The referral also helps the imaging partner arrange the correct scan protocol.
08 What do DEXA results mean?
DEXA produces a T-score comparing your bone density to a healthy young adult. T-score of -1 or higher is normal. T-score between -1 and -2.5 indicates osteopenia (reduced bone density). T-score of -2.5 or lower indicates osteoporosis. Your GP will explain your specific results and advise on next steps.
09 How often should I repeat a DEXA scan?
For osteoporosis monitoring during treatment: every 1-2 years. For untreated osteopenia: every 2-5 years. Frequency depends on your initial T-score, risk factors, and treatment response. Your GP will recommend the appropriate follow-up schedule.
Related services & reading
Book a DEXA consultation
Mediway Medical Centre
20 Upper Circular Rd, #B1-26/29 The Riverwalk, Singapore 058416
MRT: Clarke Quay (NE5), Exit E
Phone: 6909 0190 · WhatsApp: 8779 9898
Email: enquiry@mediwaymedical.com
Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm · Sat 7:30am-1pm · Closed Sun & PH
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. DEXA pricing is indicative. Bone density thresholds (T-score classifications) follow World Health Organization (WHO) and International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD) standards. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised guidance. All prices GST-inclusive and subject to change.