Short answer: Medicare Part B covers bone mass measurements for eligible patients. The usual frequency is once every 24 months, although Medicare may cover testing more often when it is medically necessary.
Original Medicare coverage
A bone mass measurement, often called a bone density test, helps determine whether a person is at risk for broken bones. A covered test may be used to identify osteoporosis or osteopenia, evaluate certain findings, or monitor osteoporosis drug treatment.
Eligibility and limits
Medicare lists several qualifying situations. These include a woman whose provider determines that she is estrogen deficient and at risk for osteoporosis, X-ray findings suggesting osteoporosis, osteopenia, or vertebral fractures, current or planned treatment with prednisone or another steroid-type drug, primary hyperparathyroidism, or monitoring of osteoporosis drug therapy.
The test must be ordered by a doctor or other qualified provider. Coverage generally applies once every 24 months. A shorter interval may be covered when the provider documents medical necessity. A test that does not meet Medicare’s eligibility or frequency rules may not be paid.
Costs
You pay nothing for a covered bone mass measurement when the provider accepts assignment. If the appointment also includes evaluation or treatment that is not part of the preventive test, the Part B deductible and coinsurance may apply to those additional services.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans must cover the Medicare-covered preventive benefit. The plan may require an in-network imaging facility, referral, or prior authorization. Additional diagnostic testing is subject to the plan’s ordinary medical-service rules.
What to do next
- Ask the ordering provider which Medicare eligibility condition applies.
- Check when you last had a covered bone mass measurement.
- Confirm that the imaging provider accepts assignment or is in your plan’s network.
- Ask whether any separate office or interpretation charge will apply.
Coverage is determined from the claim, the patient’s eligibility, provider status, and applicable Medicare rules. A provider’s recommendation does not guarantee payment. Before a planned service, ask the provider what will be billed and ask Medicare or the plan whether any coverage review is required.
Sources
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.