Private healthcare in Birmingham and Sutton Coldfield is more accessible than many patients realise. The Vesey arranges private bone density (DEXA) scanning through our accredited imaging partners, at competitive prices — rated 4.88/5 by 700+ verified patients on Doctify. Whether you need a GP appointment, specialist referral, or health assessment, we're open 7 days a week with evening and weekend appointments — live availability is shown when you book online.
Why Patients Choose The Vesey for Bone Density Testing in Birmingham
A bone density scan — also called a DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan — is a quick, painless test that measures the strength of your bones. It is the standard way to diagnose osteoporosis (thinning of the bones) and the milder osteopenia, and to estimate your risk of a future fracture.
Related service at The Vesey
Private GP appointment — £90
DEXA scanning is arranged by referral: a private GP can assess your fracture risk, refer you for the scan and act on the result, and the Bone Health blood test adds the biochemistry alongside it.
At our Sutton Coldfield clinic — 20 minutes from Birmingham · free parking
The scan uses a very low dose of X-rays — far less than a standard X-ray — to measure the mineral density of the bones most likely to break, usually the hip and lower spine.
What a DEXA Scan Involves
A DEXA scan is straightforward and takes around 10–20 minutes. You lie on a padded couch while a scanning arm passes over you — there is nothing enclosed, no injection and no pain. You can stay fully clothed, just avoiding metal zips or buttons over the area being scanned.
Your result is given as a T-score, which compares your bone density with that of a healthy young adult: a score above −1 is normal, between −1 and −2.5 indicates osteopenia, and −2.5 or below indicates osteoporosis. A clinician explains what your score means for you and any treatment or lifestyle steps that would help.
Who Should Have a Bone Density Scan?
A DEXA scan is often recommended if you:
- Are a post-menopausal woman, or a man over 50, with risk factors for osteoporosis
- Have had a fracture from a minor fall (a “fragility fracture”)
- Take long-term steroid medication
- Have a family history of osteoporosis, an early menopause, or a condition affecting bone (e.g. coeliac disease or an overactive thyroid)
If you’re not sure whether you need a scan, a GP consultation at The Vesey (from £90) can assess your risk and arrange one.
Arranging a Bone Density Scan at The Vesey
The Vesey can arrange a private DEXA scan without a GP referral, coordinated through our accredited imaging partners in Birmingham, usually within a few days. Your results are reviewed by a clinician who will explain them and advise on next steps — including treatment to protect your bones if needed.
To arrange a scan or discuss your bone health, book a GP appointment online or call 0121 387 3705.
Worried about bone health? Speak to a GP — from £90
CQC-regulated · Rated 4.88/5 on Doctify · No referral needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a GP referral at The Vesey?
No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by phone without seeing a GP first. For complex conditions, an initial GP consultation to coordinate your care may be recommended but is not required.
How quickly can I be seen at The Vesey?
We're open 7 days a week, with evening and weekend appointments. Call 0121 387 3705 or book online to see live availability.
Is The Vesey recognised by private health insurers?
Yes. The Vesey is recognised by Bupa, Vitality, WPA, and Healix. Please bring your policy details and pre-authorisation number if applicable. Our team can assist with insurance documentation.
Where is The Vesey located and is parking available?
The Vesey is at Unit 3, The Courtyard, Reddicap Trading Estate, Sutton Coldfield B75 7BU. Free parking is available immediately outside the clinic. We're open 7 days a week, with evening and weekend appointments — live availability is shown when you book online.