Taunton Gets Area’s First Self-Referral Bone Scanning Service

The area’s first self-referral whole body bone density screening service to check for osteoporosis has been launched in Taunton by the charity Nuffield Health.

The DEXA service enables people to book a scan directly without having to go through their GP. One in three women will be affected by osteoporosis in their lifetime.

Based at the Nuffield Health Taunton Hospital in Staplegrove Elm, Taunton, the scanner is part of a £50 million upgrade across the UK being made by Nuffield Health Diagnostics, the charity’s Imaging and Pathology arm.

“As a population we are becoming increasingly interested in preventative healthcare”, said Dr Matt Hoghton, Medical Director, Nuffield Health Diagnostics.

“Promoting bone health must be a priority as simple changes to lifestyle and diet can make dramatic improvements for a healthy long-term future”.

He added that people could still ask their family doctor to refer them for a DEXA scan but now patients worried about osteoporosis were also able to complete a two-minute questionnaire and refer themselves for a bone scan if appropriate. 

Scans cost £90. Results are usually ready in less than two weeks and include a comprehensive report verified by a Consultant Radiologist or Specialist Doctor.

A DEXA scan can help men and women identify if they have osteoporosis or are at risk of developing it. If caught early enough treatment and dietary changes can improve bone health and reduce the possibility of future fractures.

Scans are fast, simple and completely painless.  Images of the spine and hips are taken as the patient relaxes on a couch.  The whole examination takes approximately 20 minutes.

For more information or to book an appointment please call 0845 602 6442