Affordable Health Care Benefits
Health Insurance Alternative Benefits

AmeriPlan Health® Insurance Alternative

Savings up to 50% or more on AmeriPlan Health®, Dental, Vision, Rx and Chiropractic

Testing for Osteoporosis

About 25 million Americans have osteoporosis, a degenerative condition where bones weaken and thin.  Because the disease is progressive, catching it in the early stages is beneficial.  Doctors can test for osteoporosis using the DEXA test to measure bone density in the spine and hip.  Patients are exposed to tiny amounts of radiation to reveal even a one percent bone loss.  A score of -1 is normal, -1 to -2.5 is low, and any score below -2.5 is treated as osteoporosis.  Doctors typically recommend treatment for patients in the -1.5 to -2.0 range and those with scores better than -1.5 who have other risk factors.  Risk factors include low body weight, low calcium intake, poor health and a family history.

People who reach a high peak bone density when they are young are less likely to develop osteoporosis.  Bone density can be boosted by a healthy diet and regular excercise, particularly in people under 35.  This means prevention needs to begin at a young age. 

P.S. - The DEXA test costs about $150 and is covered by many insurance plans.

By Dr. Douglas K. Epps, M.D.

Eagles Landing Family Practice
145 Eagle's Walk, Suite A, Stockbridge, GA (770)389-3855
3758 Hwy. 42 S., Locust Grove, GA (770)957-3700
50 Kelly Road, McDonough, GA (770)957-1887
1058 Bear Creek Blvd., Hampton, GA (770)707-0808
211 Fairview Road, Ellenwood, GA (770)507-4554
Womens Center - 649 Jonesboro Road, McDonough, GA (678)432-6161

^* If you are not satisfied within the first 30 days of becoming a member, you may cancel your membership in writing by mail to 5700 Democracy Drive, Plano, Texas 75024, fax to (469) 229-4595 or email to stop@stopmembership.com. Your membership fee will be refunded. Please be aware that the one-time administrative fee and money paid for healthcare services and products are not refundable. After 30 days membership fees are not-refundable. You may cancel your membership at any time upon written request to AmeriPlan®.