Bone density tests are available at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, with a referral from your GP or Specialist.
A bone density test is a short, painless scan that measures the density (strength) of your bones, usually at the hip and spine. The medical name for this test is
Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). It is the current ‘gold standard’ for the diagnosis of osteoporosis – a condition in which bones become fragile and brittle,
increasing the risk of fractures.
 Who are we?
The Bernard Curran DEXA Unit, part of the Bernard Curran Rehabilitation Unit.
What do we do?
The DEXA Unit provides bone density testing for outpatients and inpatients requiring assessment for risk of osteoporosis.
After the completion of the scan a report is sent to the referring GP and, if appropriate, additional treatment and interventions are recommended.
How you can access our service
People requiring a DEXA scan need to have a referral from a GP or medical specialist. When you have a referral, phone us for an appointment on 9477 9514.
If you are inpatient of the hospital your visit will be coordinated by the staff on your ward.
Where you can find us
In the Bernard Curran Rehabilitation Unit, Ground Floor, Palmerston Building (building 17),
Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Hornsby.
We are located near Gate 6, Derby Road, at the back of the hospital.
What are our hours?
Bone Density Testing is available on Tuesdays between 8am and 4pm.
Appointments and enquiries can be made from Monday to Friday between 8.00 am and 4.30 pm.
How you can contact us
Phone: 9477 9514
Fax: 9477 5684
When you arrive
Please present yourself to the reception desk with your referral letter, and Medicare/DVA card. Please note that bulk-billing Medicare cover is only available
for some specific criteria (seek advice from your Doctor or phone us). If you are not covered by Medicare a fee will apply.
More information
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a disease where the bones become fragile, porous and brittle, and even a minor bump or fall can cause a serious fracture. In Australia, 50 per cent of
women and 33 per cent of men over 60 years of age will have an osteoporotic fracture. Many people believe that the symptoms of fractures, height loss or rounding
of the spine are simply due to ‘old age’ and think that osteoporosis is a normal part of ageing. But it’s not: it’s a disease. Osteoporosis is often called a silent disease as
there are usually no signs or symptoms until a fracture occurs. However, for many people osteoporotic fractures can be prevented. Early detection of bone loss is
vital. Osteoporosis is something people don’t have to suffer with. We can treat it and prevent it from becoming a problem.
Information about accessing other RACS services is available by following the links
to those services:
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