Aim To examine the feasibility of using a peripheral dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning service in a nurse-led clinic and whether or not it would influence treatment and clinician satisfaction with the service.

Method A nurse-led clinic, using peripheral DXA scans to identify patients at risk of osteoporosis, was established in the rheumatology department of the hospital. Patients were referred from several sources. A questionnaire was sent to referring health professionals with each scan result. Returned questionnaires were statistically analysed. Of the sample size of 2,000, 1,024 questionnaires were returned, giving a response rate of 51 per cent.

Results The results confirmed the hypothesis that a nurse-led peripheral DXA scanning service is feasible and beneficial to referring clinicians. Eighty nine per cent (n=912) of respondents stated that the scan results influenced treatment of patients.

Conclusion Further investigation of the extent that the DXA scanning service may have reduced unnecessary treatment is required.