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Bone Mineral Density Evaluation

Bone mineral densitometry (BMD) is an X-ray scan to measure bone density. It emits much less radiation than a chest X-ray and can help determine if you are at risk of a bone fracture or if you have osteoporosis. A BMD exam is not usually requested until you are 50 years of age or older, unless you fall into a high-risk category.

Measurements must be very precise. A first (baseline) BMD exam is often taken at around age 50 and then subsequent exams are recommended every two years. Since measurements can vary between machines, repeat tests must be taken on the same machine, or a new baseline will be needed.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

  • You can expect to be at the clinic between 30-60 minutes, depending on your procedure(s) and barring any unforeseen delays.
  • Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
  • Bring photo identification, your provincial health card, and your requisition.
  • No metal around your waist or torso area, including bras with underwire and clips, or we could give you a gown you could change into.
  • You may be asked to change into a gown.
  • Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

  • You will be weighed and measured before your scan.
  • You will be positioned on the table by your technologist.
  • Hold as still as you can. Movement may blur the images.
  • A scanner will pass a beam through your lower spine, hip, or wrist and measure your bone density.
  • The beam will then scan a second area and, if needed, a third.
  • Our radiologists will interpret the computer-processed information and forward the results to your doctor.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the computer-processed information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.

FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

Please ensure that you bring your requisition with you to your appointment.

DURATION

15 minutes

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the computer-processed information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Online Appointment Request

What We Do

At the heart of everything we do is a belief that every image tells a story—and every story deserves care.

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we provide state-of-the-art medical imaging that helps patients and physicians get the clarity they need to make informed decisions about health. From routine check-ups to complex diagnoses, our role is to deliver answers with compassion and accuracy.

We offer a full spectrum of imaging services, including:

  • MRI, CT, and X-Ray for advanced diagnostic insight

  • Ultrasound and Mammography for preventative and women’s health

  • Nuclear Medicine, Bone Density, and Cardiac Imaging for specialized care

  • Pain Management and Interventional Procedures to improve quality of life

But our work extends beyond exams and equipment. As the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada, we connect urban, rural, and remote communities with expert radiology services—ensuring access to care when and where it’s needed most.

We also partner with local organizations, sports teams, and community groups to keep people healthy and active. From professional athletes to families booking their first screening, our commitment is the same: timely results, advanced technology, and compassionate care.

Who We Are.

To improve lives with clarity, compassion, and care—one focused image at a time.

But numbers only tell part of the story. What truly defines us is our culture of compassion. We’re a team of caregivers, innovators, and problem-solvers who share a commitment to excellence. Whether supporting frontline care, developing new technology workflows, or guiding a patient through their appointment, we approach our work with empathy and integrity.

At Mayfair, you’re not just part of a company—you’re part of a community. Together, we’re shaping the future of health care, making advanced imaging accessible, and creating a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

The Inside Story

WHO WE ARE. WHAT WE DO. Why we’re more than a workplace

At Mayfair Diagnostics, we’re caregivers, nurturers, creators and thought leaders—deeply rooted in a passion to help people. We deliver meaningful work, compassionate care, and an environment where every team member can thrive.

Key Points:

  • Founded on over a century of excellence in medical imaging.

  • Owned and operated by 50+ radiologists, supported by 400–640+ employees across clinical, technical, administrative, and support roles.

  • Operating 17 locations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and beyond (14 in Calgary, plus Cochrane, Regina, Saskatoon).

  • Serving 600,000–700,000 patients annually, delivering over 90,000 radiological interpretations—the largest teleradiology provider in Western Canada.

Vision & Mission:

  • Vision: “A world in which every person has clarity about their health.”

  • Mission: “To improve people’s lives, one focused image and one caring, compassionate human touch at a time.”