Medicare coverage

Does Medicare Cover Bone Density Tests?

Yes. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers bone mass measurements to find out if you’re at risk for broken bones.

Yes: Part B

Source: Medicare.gov, Bone mass measurements, checked October 23, 2026.

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Coverage at a glance

Covered?
Yes
Which part
Part B
What you pay
You pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment.
How often
Once every 24 months
Type
Preventive service
Part B deductible 2026
$283 a year (CMS). Part B premium $202.90 a month.
Medicare.gov page
Bone mass measurements

Description

This test helps to find out if you're at risk for broken bones. Your results will help you and your doctor or other provider choose the best way to keep your bones strong.

From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.

Who's eligible

If you meet one or more of these conditions:

  • You’re a woman whose doctor determines you’re estrogen-deficient and at risk for osteoporosis, based on your medical history and other findings.
  • Your X-rays show possible osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures.
  • You’re taking prednisone or steroid-type drugs or are planning to begin this treatment.
  • You’ve been diagnosed with primary hyperparathyroidism.
  • You’re being monitored to see if your osteoporosis drug therapy is working.

From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.

Costs

You pay nothing for this test if the doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment.

From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.

How often

Once every 24 months (or more often if medically necessary) if you meet certain conditions.

From Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026.

National Coverage Determinations

An NCD is the national rule CMS writes for when Medicare pays for an item or service. Local coverage determinations (LCDs) from each Medicare contractor can add detail. Read the NCD text on the CMS site.

Related pages

Questions

Does Medicare Cover Bone Density Tests?

Yes. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers bone mass measurements to find out if you’re at risk for broken bones.

Which part of Medicare covers Bone Density Tests?

Medicare.gov lists Bone mass measurements under Part B.

How much do you pay for Bone Density Tests with Medicare?

Per Medicare.gov: You pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment.

Is there a national coverage determination for Bone Density Tests?

Yes. CMS NCD 150.3, Bone (Mineral) Density Studies, version 2, effective 2007-01-01.

Does a Medicare Advantage plan cover Bone Density Tests?

Medicare Advantage plans must cover what Original Medicare covers and some offer extra benefits. Check the plan's Evidence of Coverage. Rivvi does not recommend plans.

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Does Medicare Cover Bone Density Tests?

Yes. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers bone mass measurements to find out if you’re at risk for broken bones.

Checked against Medicare.gov 2026-10-23. Source: Rivvi

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