Women's Diagnostic Center

Joan Blomquist, M.D., CCD
Michelle Germain, M.D., CCD
Valerie Workenaour, R.T.(R)(M), CDT

Greater Baltimore Medical Center
6569 North Charles Street
Suite 307
Baltimore, MD 21204
Phone: (443) 849-6333
Fax: (443) 849-3422

Machine type: GE Lunar Prodigy Vision

The Women’s Diagnostic Center offers state-of-the-art diagnostic DEXA scanning.  DEXA Scans are performed by certified radiology technologists dedicated to bone density examinations. The technologists and interpreting physicians are certified by the ISCD (International Society of Clinical Densitometry) The center offers offsite screening programs, health fairs as well as workplace educational programs. Patient education in osteoporosis prevention, nutrition, and exercise are included with each visit.  The center also participates in clinical trials. An NOF(National Osteoporosis Foundation) support group was formed in October 2001 to heighten awareness and enhance knowledge about osteoporosis in the community.

You may have osteoporosis and not even know it!  The key to preventing this silent disease is to detect any weakening in your bones before a break occurs.  A bone density test is the only way to predict your chances of fractures due to osteoporosis.

The GBMC Osteoporosis and DEXA Service offers state-of-the-art bone density testing.  Aging, menopause, and other risk factors such as genetic, environmental, medical and social conditions, contribute to increased loss of bone mass which leads to reduced bone strength, poor bone quality, and increased risk of fractures.  This simple test determines your risk for developing a fracture.  Recommendations for a diet rich in calcium, a regular program of exercise, and medical treatment, as needed, can be some of the follow-up care.

Factors that Influence Bone Health   

Not all causes of osteoporosis are known but some risk factors are certain to contribute to an individual's likelihood of developing this potentially crippling disease.  The risk factors you cannot change are gender, age, heredity, body size, ethnicity.  The risk factors you can change are hormone levels, diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices.

Osteoporosis affects men as well as women although the chances of developing the disease are much greater if you are female.

Fast Facts about Bone Density Testing:

• GBMC uses DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) technology to measure bone density

• A DEXA scan takes about 20 minutes and is a simple, painless test

• A DEXA scan requires no special preparations, medications or injections

• Your technologist stays in the room during your test

• Medicare and many other insurance companies now pay for DEXA scans.

To schedule your DEXA scan, consult with your physician for a referral and call the Women's Diagnostic Center at 443-849-6333.  For your convenience, two evenings a month are available for DEXA appointments.

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