Osteoporosis Screening Program

Good Shepherd's free Osteoporosis Screening Program is designed to heighten awareness of osteoporosis through patient education. Held in conjunction with Orthopedics Associates of Bethlehem and Merck, Inc., Good Shepherd's free screenings help promote osteoporosis education and help area residents increase their quality of life.

An early detection device, osteoporosis screenings determine if any signs of osteoporosis are present and allow your doctor to implement a plan to stop its progression. Screening program includes free bone density screenings, patient education, and evaluation and follow-up with your primary care physician. For more information on Good Shepherd's free Osteoporosis Screening Program, contact us today or call 1-888-44-REHAB (24 hours a day, 365 days a year).

Who Should Attend
Good Shepherd welcomes anyone to attend one of our free osteoporosis screenings. Women with the following risk factors, however, are in the most danger of developing osteoporosis:

• Family history of osteoporosis
• Thin or small build
• Asthma
• Long-time use of certain medications, particularly steroids
• Previous broken bone(s)
• Menopause before age 45
• Cigarette smoking
• Lack of exercise and/or calcium (presently or as a child)

How It Works

• A referral from your primary care physician is needed to participate in this program.
• Screenings are held once a week.
• The osteoporosis test is very simple and takes only a few seconds. Your heel is placed in a bone sonometer which scans your bone in order to determine bone density. The results of your test are then forwarded to your primary care physician for follow-up care.