Patient Information

Last Updated: March 2026

About Our Services

Desert Dexa Inc. provides professional DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scanning services for body composition analysis. Our scans offer precise measurements of body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, fat distribution, and visceral adipose tissue.

DEXA scanning is a non-invasive, FDA-approved diagnostic tool that uses two low-energy X-ray beams to deliver highly accurate and reproducible results. Learn more about how DEXA scans work. A typical scan takes approximately 10-15 minutes and requires no preparation, injections, or medications.

Safety Information

DEXA Technology

DEXA scanning is widely regarded as the gold standard for body composition measurement. The technology is:

  • Non-invasive and painless
  • Quick (typically 10-15 minutes)
  • Highly accurate and reproducible
  • FDA-approved for clinical use

Radiation Exposure

DEXA scans use an extremely low dose of radiation, significantly lower than most medical X-ray procedures. The radiation exposure is comparable to the amount received during a cross-country flight and is considered safe for regular monitoring.

Contraindications

Please do not receive a DEXA scan if you:

  • Are pregnant or may be pregnant -- X-ray exposure, even at low doses, is not recommended during pregnancy
  • Have had a contrast dye study within the past 7 days -- Barium or iodine contrast can interfere with scan accuracy
  • Have had a nuclear medicine scan within the past 7 days -- Radioactive tracers can affect results
  • Weigh more than 450 pounds -- This exceeds the weight limit of our equipment
  • Are unable to lie still for 10-15 minutes -- Movement can affect scan quality

Pre-Scan Checklist

Before your scan, our staff will review the following with you:

  • Pregnancy status (all women of childbearing age)
  • Recent medical imaging procedures
  • Presence of metal implants or prosthetics
  • Current medications
  • Medical conditions that may affect the scan

Metal Objects and Implants

While metal implants are generally safe for DEXA scanning, they may affect the accuracy of results in that area. Please inform our staff if you have:

  • Hip or knee replacements
  • Spinal fusion hardware
  • Metal rods or pins
  • Pacemakers or defibrillators (safe but should be noted)

Please remove all removable metal objects before your scan, including jewelry, belts, and clothing with metal fasteners.

Special Populations

Children and Adolescents: DEXA scanning is generally safe for children when medically indicated. Minors must have written parental consent and be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Elderly Patients: DEXA scanning is particularly valuable for elderly patients to assess body composition. Special care is taken to ensure comfort and safety during positioning.

Patients with Disabilities: We strive to accommodate all patients. Please inform us of any special needs or accommodations required when scheduling your appointment.

Scan Frequency Guidelines

  • Body Composition: Can be performed monthly for those actively tracking fitness progress
  • Maximum Frequency: No more than once per month unless medically indicated

Post-Scan Information

After your DEXA scan:

  • There are no restrictions on activities
  • You can eat and drink normally
  • There are no side effects
  • Your results will be sent to you via email

Informed Consent

Note: This online version is for informational purposes. You will be asked to complete a consent form at your appointment.

What Happens During a DEXA Scan

  1. You will lie on a padded table for approximately 10-15 minutes
  2. A scanning arm will pass over your body without touching you
  3. You must remain still during the scan to ensure accurate results
  4. The procedure is painless and non-invasive
  5. No injections or medications are required

Benefits

  • Accurate measurement of body composition
  • Tracking of fitness and health progress over time
  • Identification of muscle imbalances
  • Assessment of visceral fat levels

Risks

  • Minimal radiation exposure from low-dose X-ray technology
  • No known side effects from the procedure
  • Potential for discomfort in sensitive individuals (though the machine is open)

Right to Refuse or Withdraw

You have the right to:

  • Refuse the DEXA scan at any time
  • Ask questions before, during, or after the procedure
  • Request a copy of your results
  • Withdraw consent at any time before the scan begins

Financial Information

  • Payment is due at the time of service
  • You are responsible for the full cost of the scan
  • Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Medical Disclaimer

Important: DEXA scan results provided by Desert Dexa are for informational purposes only. Desert Dexa staff are not medical doctors and cannot provide medical diagnoses or treatment recommendations. You should discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, fitness, or medical treatment plans.

Consent Acknowledgment

By scheduling and receiving a DEXA scan at Desert Dexa, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the information provided about DEXA scanning, you understand the benefits and risks, you confirm that you do not have any contraindications, and you voluntarily consent to undergo the procedure. A completed consent form will be required before your scan.

Patient Bill of Rights

At Desert Dexa Inc., we are committed to treating all patients with dignity, respect, and transparency. As a patient, you have the following rights:

Information and Consent

  • Receive complete and accurate information about the DEXA scanning procedure, your results, and all associated costs before receiving services
  • Receive a clear explanation of the procedure and any risks or contraindications
  • Ask questions and receive understandable answers
  • Refuse or discontinue services at any time without penalty

Privacy and Confidentiality

  • Have your personal and health information kept confidential
  • Know how your information will be used and shared
  • Access your scan results and records at any time
  • Request corrections to inaccurate information
  • Receive services in a private, comfortable environment

Respectful Treatment

  • Be treated with courtesy, respect, and dignity
  • Receive services without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or ability to pay
  • Have your cultural and personal values respected
  • Voice concerns or complaints without fear of retaliation

Quality Service and Transparent Pricing

  • Receive services from qualified, trained personnel using properly maintained, calibrated equipment
  • Receive accurate, reliable results
  • Know all costs before receiving services, with a clear explanation of what is included
  • Receive a receipt for all payments

Records and Complaints

  • Receive copies of your scan results
  • Request copies of past scan results or have records transferred to another provider
  • Express concerns or complaints about your care and have them addressed promptly
  • Contact regulatory agencies if your concerns are not resolved

Your Responsibilities

To ensure the best possible service, we ask that you:

  • Provide accurate and complete information about your health
  • Inform us if you are or may be pregnant
  • Arrive on time for scheduled appointments
  • Give 24-hour notice for cancellations
  • Treat our staff and other patients with respect
  • Follow preparation instructions for your scan

Quality and Credentials

Equipment Safety

Desert Dexa maintains the highest standards of equipment safety:

  • Daily quality control checks
  • Regular calibration and maintenance
  • Annual safety inspections
  • Compliance with all state and federal regulations
  • Trained and certified operators

Regulatory Compliance

Desert Dexa operates in compliance with:

  • California Department of Public Health regulations
  • FDA regulations for medical devices
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards
  • American College of Radiology guidelines

Staff Qualifications

All staff performing DEXA scans at Desert Dexa are trained and qualified to operate our equipment safely and accurately. Our team maintains current certifications and participates in ongoing continuing education to stay up to date with best practices in DEXA scanning technology.

Emergency Procedures

Although DEXA scanning is very safe, we maintain emergency procedures for medical emergencies, equipment malfunctions, and patient discomfort. Our staff is trained in basic life support and emergency response procedures.

Contact Information

If you have questions about any of the information on this page or wish to exercise any of your rights, please contact us:

Desert Dexa Inc. -- Rancho Mirage

69848 Highway 111 Suite 7
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Phone: (760) 301-6806

Email: contact@desertdexa.com

Book Your Scan

Ready to schedule? Book online at our Rancho Mirage location. View all locations and cities we serve.

Additional Resources

For more information about DEXA scan safety, you may consult:

  • International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD)
  • Your personal healthcare provider

Regulatory Contacts

If you believe your rights have been violated or you are dissatisfied with our response to your concerns, you may contact:

  • California Department of Public Health
  • California Department of Consumer Affairs
  • Your local Better Business Bureau