20 new bone density scanners being installed across NHS hospitals in England in £2.6m investment

Patients in the West Midlands will benefit from faster diagnosis of fragile bones following the roll-out of 20 new scanners across NHS hospitals in England, Health Secretary Wes Streeting said.

The machines will expand capacity and replace outdated equipment, ensuring tens of thousands of patients gain earlier access to treatment and reducing the risk of life-changing fractures. 

The initiative builds on a first wave of 13 scanners introduced last year, with over 16,000 additional DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scans delivered in 2025 compared to the previous year.

Hospitals in Leeds, Hexham, Birmingham and Bristol are among sites receiving the new machines. 

‘Helping thousands, particularly women at higher risk of osteoporosis’

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said: “The programme forms part of wider NHS reforms to modernise services and prevent illness before it occurs, helping thousands of people, particularly women at higher risk of osteoporosis, receive timely testing and avoid painful fractures.”

Dr Lesley Kay, NHS National Clinical Director for Musculoskeletal Conditions, said DEXA scanners were “the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis”, highlighting the benefits of early detection, including medication and lifestyle changes to strengthen bones.

Craig Jones, Chief Executive of the Royal Osteoporosis Society, said: “The scanners must be accompanied by strengthened fracture liaison services, so patients move seamlessly from diagnosis to care.”

The £2.6 million investment aligns with the government’s 10 Year Health Plan, aiming to cut waiting times and reduce pressure on hospitals by preventing fractures before they occur.

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