Introduction

As we age, maintaining strong bones becomes vital to staying independent and avoiding injury. Osteoporosis, a thinning of the bones leading to an increased risk of fractures, may show no symptoms until a sudden break occurs. Medicare provides a range of preventive benefits that support bone health—empowering seniors and those at increased risk to take charge of their well-being. This guide covers covered bone health screenings, who qualifies, and practical advice to keep your bones resilient for years to come.

What Preventive Services Does Medicare Offer for Bone Health

Medicare strongly supports prevention and early detection. For osteoporosis and bone loss, the primary preventive benefit is the bone mass measurement, usually called a bone density test (DEXA scan). Under Medicare Part B:

Bone density measurement is covered once every 24 months for qualifying members, cost-free if the provider accepts Medicare assignment.
Screenings may be performed more frequently if determined to be medically necessary—as when new risk factors, evidence of rapid bone loss, or certain medications come into play.
Routine screenings are part of the preventive benefits, meaning there are no deductibles or copays—giving early warning of bone thinning or adequate tracking if you’re already being treated for osteoporosis.

Who Is Eligible for Medicare Bone Density Tests

This preventive testing is available to people deemed at increased risk by their doctor. Medicare specifically grants bone mass measurement coverage if you meet at least one of these criteria:

Estrogen deficiency from menopause or related treatments
Diagnosed primary hyperparathyroidism
Long-term use of steroid medications (prednisone or similar drugs likely to impact bone strength)
Pre-existing vertebral abnormalities or evidence of previous spinal fracture
Already on long-term osteoporosis drug therapy and need therapy reassessment

Men may also qualify if their doctor documents significant risk factors. Both men and women who need frequent reevaluation based on provider review may access more routine coverage with proper clinical records and plan authorization.

Beyond Testing—Medicare and Additional Bone Wellness Practices

Yearly Wellness Visits through Medicare include review of falls risk, injury prevention advice, diet evaluation (including vitamin D and calcium intake), and support for personalized exercise plans to promote bone strength.
Your provider may coordinate referrals to therapy aimed at balancing, strengthening, or rebuilding confidence in walking after any history of screening-diagnosed osteoporosis or fracture.
Part D covers prescription osteoporotic drugs and vitamin D replacements when needed, subject to your plan’s standard copay and formulary process.

Tips for Improving and Sustaining Bone Health During Medicare Age

Don’t wait for a break—be pro-active. Ask your healthcare provider at each annual visit if your risk profile or family history suggests starting a regular DEXA scan schedule.
Clarify your plan with area radiology centers and labs: for no cost, use only approved facilities, under scheduling arranged by your referring Medicare provider.
Keep a nutrition and medication log. Share use of bone-impacting therapies or report any sudden, unexplained changes in mobility, strength, or posture to your doctor.
If osteoporosis risk more than test results are present, don’t ignore falls prevention support. Medicare frequently covers therapy, home assessments, or DME like safety bars when prescribed by a professional.

Your Partner for Lifelong Bone Strength

A delighted, active retirement relies on robust, fracture resilient bones. Medicare’s proactive prevention services make bone care both easy to maintain and affordable. For personalized screening or medication benefit checks, guidance seeking Advantage plans with expanded wellness supports, or appealing denied study requests, contact Vista Mutual Insurance Services. We will walk you through every screening detail and treatment opportunity to keep you upright, strong, and secure—wherever life's adventures lead.

Medicare Preventive Benefits for Bone Health and Osteoporosis