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Bone Density Program

More than half of all women in their mid-70s will be at risk of osteoporotic, or "fragility" fractures if their bone loss is not identified and treated. Such fractures can lead to disability, loss of independence and shortened life expectancy. Bone density studies are critical in diagnosing osteoporosis and are used to predict the risk of developing fractures due to this disease.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Group performs bone density studies using a state-of-the-art Lunar bone densitometer, which includes measurements taken at the hips and lumbar spine.

The Bone Density Procedure

This simple and painless test takes 15 minutes and has minimal X-ray exposure. The procedure is performed by certified technologists working under the direction of Stewart Middler, MD, PhD, a board-certified endocrinologist with more than 30 years experience treating osteoporosis and other bone and calcium diseases. He is available to consult with your doctor, interpret results and make recommendations for therapy or follow-up care. If you wish, your results can be given to other physicians providing your care, including your gynecologist.

Expert Physician

Stewart Middler, MD, PhD, a board-certified physician in internal medicine and endocrinology, oversees the Bone Density Program at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group. Dr. Middler received his bachelor's degree from University of California, Los Angeles, and his medical degree from the UCLA School of Medicine. He has been in private practice for more than 30 years and has treated hundreds of women with osteoporosis.

Appropriate Candidates

All women should have a bone density test performed at the onset of menopause to determine the need for future therapy. Patients with the following risk factors are at an even higher risk for osteoporosis and should have bone density studies:

• Chronic smoking
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Low body weight
• Prolonged periods of estrogen deficiency
• Use of steroid medications
• Prior fractures
• Family history of osteoporosis

Payment

For post-menopausal women, bone density testing is a covered Medicare benefit every 24 months. Most PPOs and private insurances also cover this procedure for post-menopausal women. Some insurers, such as Blue Shield, require prior authorization. If you are part of a managed care plan, call your primary care physician.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Group accepts most PPO insurance plans, which means that your out-of-pocket expense for this test will be minimal. While many gynecology offices also offer these procedures, your cost may be higher since many are not PPO plan providers.

Ask your doctor if you are a candidate for a bone density test. If you are, your doctor's office can obtain prior authorization if required by your insurance company. Your doctor can also answer questions about the test and interpret the results. Dr. Middler will be available to consult with the referring physician of anyone who has a bone density study at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group. When needed, patients may be referred for a formal consultation.

For More Information

For more information about the Bone Density Program or to schedule an appointment, please contact your primary care physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Group.