Can You Use Your HSA for a DEXA Scan?

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) offer a tax-advantaged way to save and pay for healthcare costs when paired with a high-deductible health plan (HDHP). HSAs provide tax benefits, including tax-deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses. A DEXA scan, or Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry, is a medical imaging procedure used to measure bone mineral density.

Understanding HSA-Eligible Expenses

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines qualified medical expenses as those primarily for the prevention or alleviation of a physical or mental defect or illness. Common examples include payments for doctor visits, prescription medications, dental care, and vision services.

Expenses for general health or cosmetic purposes are not considered qualified medical expenses. For instance, gym memberships or elective cosmetic surgeries cannot be paid for with HSA funds. However, if a procedure or item is prescribed by a physician to treat a specific medical condition, it may become eligible.

DEXA Scans and Eligibility

A DEXA scan can be an HSA-eligible expense if prescribed by a physician for a specific medical reason. Such reasons include diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis or monitoring bone density changes due to a medical condition, medication, or as part of a treatment plan.

A DEXA scan obtained purely for general wellness, athletic performance tracking, or body composition analysis without a diagnosed medical need is not HSA-eligible. The distinction hinges on medical necessity and a physician’s recommendation. A doctor’s order clearly stating the medical purpose is important for the scan to qualify.

Using Your HSA for Payment and Records

Many HSA providers issue a debit card linked to your account, which can be used directly at the time of service, similar to a regular bank card. This method provides immediate payment from your HSA funds to the healthcare provider.

Alternatively, you can pay for the DEXA scan out-of-pocket and then reimburse yourself from your HSA. This involves submitting a claim or request to your HSA administrator, often with supporting documentation, to transfer funds from your HSA to your personal bank account. This process ensures you still benefit from the tax advantages of using HSA funds, even if you initially paid with personal money.

Maintaining thorough records is important for tax purposes and to demonstrate the eligibility of your expenses. Retain the receipt for the DEXA scan, which details the service provided and the amount paid. If applicable, keep the Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your health insurance company, as this document indicates the medical coding and charges. Most importantly, keep a copy of the physician’s prescription or referral for the scan, as this document provides clear evidence of medical necessity.