6. Bone Density Screening & Diabetes Prevention Program (Osteoporosis Detection)
The Problem: 1 in 3 women over 70 will suffer a hip fracture. A hip fracture costs Medicare $35,000+ in surgical and rehabilitation costs plus years of mobility loss. Bone density tests (DEXA scans) can identify osteoporosis before fractures happen, yet most seniors never get screened because they think it’s not covered.
What’s Covered (Completely Free):
Bone Mass Measurement (DEXA Scan)
- Every 24 months if you’re at high risk for osteoporosis
- High-risk categories include:
- Women ages 65+ (all women)
- Men 70+ with low testosterone or risk factors
- Anyone on long-term corticosteroids
- Prior fracture history
- Standard DEXA ultrasound: completely free
- More frequent scans (if medically necessary): also covered
Diabetes Screening
- Up to 2 screenings per year for all beneficiaries
- Fasting blood glucose test
- Hemoglobin A1C test (3-month glucose average)
- Free under preventive services
- If prediabetic (blood sugar 100–125 mg/dL): eligible for free Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)
Medicare Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)
- Free or low-cost enrollment for eligible beneficiaries
- 16-week program covering nutrition, exercise, behavior change
- Can reverse prediabetes entirely
- Reduces diabetes risk by 71% in people 60+
The Numbers: A hip fracture costs $35,000+ and often triggers permanent disability. A DEXA scan costs $150–$300 privately but is free under Medicare. One early detection saves your independence and tens of thousands in recovery costs.
