Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions regarding their healthcare. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about bone densitometry:

1. Why do you suggest I schedule a bone density test?
   
   
2. Which type of bone densitometry do you recommend for me?
   
   
3. Will my test use x-rays, ultrasound or some other imaging method?
   
   
4. How long will my test take?
   
   
5. I recently had a test involving a contrast medium. How long will I have to wait to have my bone densitometry?
   
   
6. Do I need to restrict my intake of calcium before the test or do anything else to prepare?
   
   
7. I think I’m pregnant. Should I wait to have bone densitometry?
   
   
8. How much radiation will be used during my test?
   
   
9. Will I receive other tests in addition to bone densitometry?
   
   
10. How long will I have to wait for test results, and who will explain them to me?
    
    
11. Does my test show that I have osteoporosis, osteopenia or normal bone density? What treatment options, if any, do you recommend for me?
    
    
12. How often should I be screened or monitored with a bone density test?