Question:
Should I get a screening bone density scan to screen for osteoporosis if I am a woman under age 65?
Answer:
No
MedHead Confidence Score: 8
Amount Saved: $150 doctor visit $150 bone density (DXA) scan
MedHead Message:
If you are a woman, have not had a previous hip fracture or long term prednisone use, don’t use tobacco, don’t get a bone density scan, even if your doctor says you need one, until age 65. A lot of money is wasted on these tests that don’t help.
References:
https://www.aafp.org/dam/AAFP/documents/about_us/initiatives/choosing-wisely-fifteen-questions.pdf
