Body Mass Composition Scan (BMC)

The quickest, easiest way to get to know your body better.

This exam provides you with information about bone density, as well as a comprehensive analysis your muscle mass and body fat. Please note: you will now need a doctor’s referral for this exam.

Understanding a body mass composition scan

A body mass composition scan uses a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanner, which looks like a large, flat table with an “arm” suspended overhead.

The scanner assesses the body composition with low-dose x-rays in a comfortable, noninvasive way.

Benefits Of A BMC Scan

Low-Dose X-Rays

Weight & Body Mass Assessment

Comfortable & Noninvasive

Who needs a body mass composition scan?

Anyone can potentially derive value from the results of a body mass composition scan.  It is an ideal test for both athletes and individuals in weight management or fitness programs who would like to gauge their progress or simply measure their body fat.

The scan assessment produces colour images displaying the distribution of lean muscle mass, fat mass and bone with a percentage breakdown, translating the information into an easy-to-interpret report.

Body mass composition scans are not covered by Alberta Health Care. It is a private pay exam. The cost to you is $75.00. Although it is a private pay exam, we do require a referral from your doctor.

A journey to a healthier you

A body mass composition scan is a whole body assessment that gives you a blueprint for improving your health. Your doctor, a trainer, or even a physiotherapist might recommend you to have a body composition scan.

You will get an accurate picture of how your weight is distributed and find out how you match up against the World Health Organization’s ideal body fat percentages.

Once you have a better understanding of your body, you can use that knowledge to continue to work towards becoming the healthiest you can be.

Preparing For Your Appointment

PATIENT PREPARATION

  • Do not take calcium or vitamin supplements the day of the exam.
  • You cannot have had an x-ray procedure using barium or dye in the 7 days leading up to your exam.
  • You cannot have a BMC if you are under 18 or are pregnant.
  • Wear loose fitting clothing, with no metal (including underwire) or you may be asked to change into a gown.
  • Fasting is required for 12 hours before your appointment.
  • No exercise or alcohol for 24 hours beforehand.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR EXAM

  • You will be asked to empty your bladder.
  • Your height and weight will be taken.
  • The technologist will explain the exam, and have you lie on your back on the table.
  • You will be required to hold very still during the exam.

AFTER YOUR EXAM

  • After a BMC, the technologists will print your results and go over them with you before you leave.
  • No information will be forwarded to your referring doctor.

BMC is private pay only

Referrals are necessary for all bookings 

Exam Duration: 15min

My technician Rhonda and Dr. Venu are absolutely exceptional in their bedside manner. They were thoroughly invested in ensuring I was comfortable, informed, and well taken care of. I’ve had the same family doctor for 26 years and I felt just as comfortable with Dr. Venu and Rhonda today as I do with my own family physician.

Your HomeWatchTM

I was scheduled for an MRI and everything went smoothly and quickly! I was called in not even 5 minutes after my appointment time! The technician in the MRI room was really nice and friendly. Would not hesitate to book again and do the drive from Calgary.

Kathleen Boucher

I use CAMIS in Red Deer as a medical professional and as a patient. Yesterday I used it as a patient to have a pain management procedure with Dr. Mann. The fluoroscopy technicians were very friendly and professional and made the whole process quick and efficient. Dr. Mann was funny and took great pride in keeping everything sterile and as pain free as possible. Overall as a patient and medical professional I give CAMIS a big thumbs up.

Jolene

I cannot say enough good things about all the staff and doctors I interacted with the last two days. What was a very scary and stressful time was made enjoyable, easy, understandable and friendly.

Carrie McKay

I had a Barbotage treatment at the new CAMIS Notre Dame location. I have to say the staff there are excellent. The one in the treatment room with me was so kind, considerate and compassionate). I just want to compliment the lovely lady who assisted the Doctor who was also exceptionally good at trying not to cause me any more pain. Great job done by both of them.

Carole Carnahan

Impressed with my mammogram appointment today, the lineup went quickly and was efficiently managed. Pam was wonderful, these tests aren’t fun but she was kind, gentle, and has an excellent personality. The ladies at the front desk were also friendly and very knowledgeable and answered all my questions . Thank you for a great experience.

C.P.

We travel 1.5 hours for prenatal ultrasounds to come here instead of the 30mins to the place closest to us due to great experiences with the ultrasound techs in Red Deer, they have all been lovely!

Brooke Zimmer

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Do You Need A Body Mass Composition Scan?

Contact our Camis Care team to ask questions and learn more about our body mass composition scan services.