Can general radiography detect osteoporosis?
Despite the advent of newer and highly accurate and precise quantitative techniques such as DXA and quantitative CT, osteoporosis is still most commonly diagnosed at conventional radiography. However, this modality is able to help detect bone loss only when a substantial amount (approximately 30%) occurs (26).
What does a GP do for osteoporosis?
These are: high quality fracture care, with prompt pre-operative assessment and stabilisation, and surgery carried out during working hours by experienced surgeons/anaesthetists. high quality secondary prevention, focusing on both drug therapy for bone protection and falls assessment and prevention.
What is the best screening test for osteoporosis?
The most commonly used bone measurement test used to screen for osteoporosis is central DXA; other screening tests include peripheral DXA and quantitative ultrasound (QUS). Central DXA measures BMD at the hip and lumbar spine.
How is osteoporosis diagnosed in Australia?
Diagnosing osteoporosis Diagnosis of osteoporosis requires an assessment of bone mineral density (BMD). The most commonly used technique is a specialised X-ray known as a ‘Dual energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) scan’ to determine bone mineral density (BMD) in the hips and spine (IOF 2017).
How is osteoporosis diagnosed?
Your bone density can be measured by a machine that uses low levels of X-rays to determine the proportion of mineral in your bones. During this painless test, you lie on a padded table as a scanner passes over your body. In most cases, only certain bones are checked — usually in the hip and spine.
Is bone density test covered by Medicare?
The full cost of a bone density scan is covered under original Medicare every 24 months. If you need to have a bone density test more often, your doctor will have to provide proof of a reason for more frequent testing.
How much does a bone density scan cost in Australia?
The cost of a bone mineral density test ranges from $85 to $160.
Is bone density Scan covered by Medicare?
How often will Medicare pay for DEXA scan?
Medicare will cover a test once every 24 months for a preventive screening if they meet the following requirements: a doctor certifies a woman is at risk for osteoporosis due to estrogen deficiency or medical history. a person’s X-ray shows signs of osteoporosis, osteopenia, or fractured vertebrae.
Will Medicare pay for a DEXA scan every year?
Are people being appropriately diagnosed and treated for osteoporosis in Australia?
Unfortunately, it appears that many individuals are not being appropriately diagnosed or treated for osteoporosis in Australian general practice, as the majority of individuals considered to be high risk (having at least one previous osteoporotic fracture) are neither identified nor treated.
Should your GP be concerned about your risk of osteoporosis?
The most important thing for a GP is to be aware of bone health and also to assess patients sitting in front of them regarding their risk of osteoporosis,’ he told Good Practice.
How can we address the treatment gap in osteoporosis care in Australia?
The treatment gap in osteoporosis care in Australia can be addressed through implementation of SFP programs and ortho-geriatric services in both the hospital and primary care setting.
What are the RACGP guidelines on BMD scanning for osteoporosis?
The RACGP guideline recommends BMD scanning for any person with a minimal trauma fracture or vertebral fracture confirmed on spinal X-ray ( Figure 1 ), or the presence of major risk factors, including age >60 years, low body weight, and being a cigarette smoker ( Table 1 ). Table 1. Major risk factors for osteoporosis 7