Bone Densitometry Initial Training
As we age, strong bones are essential to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle.
Weak, brittle bones are prone to fractures or breaks, and may occur as a result of osteoporosis – a disease that causes bone density loss over time.
This is where bone densitometry enters the picture, which involves radiologic technologists with advanced training who use specialized equipment to measure bone content and density. Bone densitometry is beneficial in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, a condition that affects an estimated 44 million Americans per year.
As a bone densitometry technologist, you'll use the knowledge and skills developed in bone densitometry initial training to aid in the diagnosis of this condition, and to provide the analytical measurements necessary to develop an effective treatment plan.
Initial Training for Bone Densitometry Technologists
With so many Americans suffering from osteoporosis, managing the consequences of this disease has cost the United States' healthcare system billions of dollars. The addition of bone densitometry as a Medicare-reimbursable procedure has centered attention on the individuals qualified for the role and the associated training requirements.
Whether you are new to the field or wishing to expand your existing knowledge, completing a bone densitometry training course will ensure you meet and exceed the current education standards. The course will discuss the principles, theory, practical knowledge, and skills required to perform bone densitometry in detail.
Working as a Bone Densitometry Technologist
Because we can't actively feel bones weakening, osteoporosis is often called a silent disease. In many cases, the first sign is a broken or fractured bone – and by then the condition may be so far advanced, it is difficult to treat. Testing can detect decreasing bone density at a much earlier stage, when treatment may be beneficial.
Bone densitometry technologists often use dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA) to determine bone density. A DXA scan is the most accurate method available for osteoporosis diagnosis, and is also useful in estimating future fracture risk.
Bone densitometry testing is used to:
Earning Credentials in Bone Densitometry
If you're seeking continued education in bone densitometry, a comprehensive training course is available.
Throughout the bone densitometry course, you'll study:
This training can benefit healthcare professionals who are planning to or currently performing bone densitometry procedures, including technologists and physicians, as well as those preparing to take a certification exam.
Bone Densitometry Training Course Registration
Initial training consists of a two-day, web-based course providing a comprehensive overview of bone densitometry.
The program was developed by an ARRT registered and ISCD credentialed densitometrist and covers topics adhering to the content specifications for the International Society of Clinical Densitometry and the ARRT Registry for Bone Densitometry.
Start your bone densitometry training by viewing the course details for more information on requirements and registry.