What is Bone Densitometry (DEXA)?
Bone Densitometry, or DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry), is a non-invasive medical imaging test that uses very low doses of X-ray to measure bone mineral density (BMD). It is the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis and assessing a patient's risk of fracture. In a Nigerian clinical setting, it is operated by trained radiographers and the results are interpreted by radiologists, endocrinologists, or rheumatologists to guide treatment for patients with, or at risk of, bone loss. The clinical impact is significant; it allows for early intervention before a debilitating fracture occurs, which is critical for Nigeria's aging population and for patients on long-term steroid or HIV treatments that can affect bone health.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) price in Nigeria
The price for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system in Nigeria ranges from NGN 18 million for a basic refurbished unit to over NGN 65 million for a new, advanced system with full body composition analysis. The final landed cost is driven by several factors beyond the base price. These include the technology (faster fan-beam systems cost more than older pencil-beam models), software modules (e.g., Vertebral Fracture Assessment - VFA), and the brand, with GE Healthcare and Hologic being the market leaders. Additional costs that you must account for are foreign exchange fluctuations, freight and insurance, customs duties, a mandatory 5kVA+ online UPS, installation, NNRA registration, and clinical applications training. When you request a quote, ensure it is itemised so you can see the cost for each component, not just a single bundled price.
- Questions savvy buyers ask:
- Is the quoted price inclusive of a correctly rated pure sine wave online UPS?
- Does the cost cover all NNRA licensing and registration fees, or will we pay those separately?
- What is the exact cost of the annual service contract after the 12 or 24-month warranty expires?
- Is on-site applications training for at least two of our radiographers included in this price?
- Does the quote factor in potential foreign exchange volatility between the proforma invoice and payment dates?
Contact Franance for a detailed, line-item quote tailored to your facility's specific clinical and operational needs.
cheapest Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria
The cheapest Bone Densitometry (DEXA) systems in Nigeria are typically older, refurbished pencil-beam models, starting from NGN 18 million to NGN 28 million. These units provide basic, safe AP spine and femur scan capabilities, which meet the minimum requirements for osteoporosis diagnosis. However, the low initial price often comes with significant limitations and hidden costs. You can expect a much shorter warranty, often just 3-6 months, covering limited parts. The X-ray tube may be near the end of its life, leading to a costly replacement within the first 1-2 years. Furthermore, the price rarely includes essential items like a UPS, installation, shielding calculations, or comprehensive training, which can add another NGN 2-4 million to your total outlay.
- Before accepting the lowest quote:
- Verify the exact date of manufacture of the system and its X-ray tube.
- Confirm the software version and ask if it can still receive security or feature updates.
- Get a written guarantee of spare parts availability for at least the next 5 years.
- Request a line-item breakdown of what is not included (e.g., UPS, training, NNRA fees).
Contact Franance to evaluate if a low-cost unit truly meets your long-term clinical and financial goals.
affordable Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria
An affordable, best-value Bone Densitometry (DEXA) bundle in Nigeria, which includes a modern fan-beam system, professional installation, a 2-year warranty, a 5kVA online UPS, and on-site applications training, typically costs between NGN 35 million and NGN 50 million. This "total package" approach is far more affordable in the long run than simply buying the cheapest unit. Investing in the correct UPS and a comprehensive service plan from day one can reduce equipment downtime by over 80% in the first two years, preventing lost revenue and protecting your sensitive electronics from Nigeria's erratic power supply. The 12-month cost of a cheap unit plagued by power issues and slow service can easily exceed the initial savings.
- Bundle these for value:
- The DEXA system itself (preferably a modern fan-beam model).
- A correctly rated pure sine wave online UPS (minimum 5kVA).
- A comprehensive 24-month warranty covering parts and labour.
- Turnkey installation, including site inspection and calibration.
- On-site applications training for two radiographers and one clinician.
- Initial NNRA registration and licensing support.
Ask Franance about our turnkey DEXA packages for a predictable, all-in cost that guarantees uptime.
new Bone Densitometry (DEXA) price vs refurbished Bone Densitometry (DEXA) price
A new fan-beam DEXA system in Nigeria typically costs between NGN 40 million and NGN 65 million, while a certified refurbished unit of a similar class ranges from NGN 25 million to NGN 40 million. The primary difference is not just cost but also technology, warranty, and peace of mind. New systems, like a GE Lunar iDXA, come with the latest software, full 1-2 year OEM warranties, guaranteed parts availability, and the highest uptime (>98%). Refurbished units offer a 30-50% cost saving but may have older, non-upgradeable software, a shorter 6-12 month limited warranty, and potentially longer lead times for sourcing specific replacement parts.
| Feature | New DEXA System | Certified Refurbished DEXA System |
|---|
| Price Range | NGN 40M - 65M+ | NGN 25M - 40M |
| Warranty | 1-2 years, comprehensive OEM | 6-12 months, limited vendor warranty |
| Software | Latest version, fully upgradeable | Older version, often not upgradeable |
| Uptime | >98% | 90-95% (component age dependent) |
| Lead Time | 8-12 weeks (from factory) | 10-16 weeks (sourcing dependent) |
| Lifecycle | 10-12 years | 5-7 years |
Let Franance provide a comparative analysis of new vs. refurbished options for your specific use case and budget.
request Bone Densitometry (DEXA) quote in Nigeria (Franance)
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system tailored to your facility's requirements and budget.
where to buy Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria (suppliers)
You can buy Bone Densitometry (DEXA) systems from specialized medical equipment suppliers primarily located in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, but you must rigorously verify their technical and regulatory credentials before any transaction. A credible supplier is more than just a salesperson; they must be an authorized partner of the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) like GE Healthcare or Hologic. Your verification process should include checking their Certificate of Incorporation with the CAC, demanding a current Letter of Authorization from the OEM, and confirming they have in-house, factory-trained biomedical engineers to handle installation and service. Ask for at least three references from other Nigerian hospitals where they have successfully installed a similar system. Franance’s procurement workflow automates this verification. We pre-qualify all our partners, ensuring they have the engineering capacity, OEM backing, NNRA compliance, and financial stability to deliver and support your equipment for its entire lifecycle.
- Documentation you must request:
- Certificate of Incorporation (CAC documents).
- A current, verifiable Letter of Authorization from the OEM (e.g., GE Healthcare, Hologic).
- CVs and OEM training certificates of their lead installation and service engineers.
- Proof of a valid Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) license to import and service ionizing radiation equipment.
- At least three recent, verifiable Purchase Orders and Job Completion Certificates from Nigerian healthcare facilities.
Franance connects you only with pre-vetted, compliant suppliers to eliminate procurement risk.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) suppliers in Nigeria — checklist
Use this 12-point checklist to vet potential Bone Densitometry (DEXA) suppliers in Nigeria:
- Corporate: Are they registered with the CAC and have a physical office address?
- OEM Authorization: Can they provide a current, valid authorization letter from the manufacturer (e.g., Hologic, GE)?
- Technical Team: Do they have at least two in-house, factory-trained engineers for this specific device? (Request certificates).
- Regulatory: Do they hold a valid NNRA license for importation and sales of radiation-emitting devices?
- Track Record: Can they provide references from three Nigerian hospitals where they have installed and currently service a DEXA machine?
- Service Level Agreement (SLA): Do they offer a clear post-warranty SLA with guaranteed response times (e.g., engineer on-site within 48 hours)?
- Spare Parts: Do they maintain a local inventory of critical spare parts (e.g., phantoms, filters, key electronic boards)?
- Turnkey Capability: Does their proposal cover everything from shipping and customs to installation, calibration, and training?
- Insurance: Do they have valid Goods-in-Transit and Professional Indemnity insurance policies?
- Training: Is applications training conducted on-site by a certified specialist included in the price?
- Documentation: Will they provide complete user manuals, service manuals, and calibration certificates upon installation?
- Financials: Are they financially stable and able to offer flexible payment terms or performance bonds if required?
verified Bone Densitometry (DEXA) supplier in Nigeria (Franance)
Franance is a verified procurement partner for Bone Densitometry (DEXA) systems in Nigeria, offering end-to-end project management from sourcing to installation and after-sales support across all 36 states. We act as your trusted advisor, leveraging our network of pre-vetted, OEM-authorized suppliers to ensure you get the right equipment at the best possible terms, fully compliant with all Nigerian regulations.
- Franance service stack:
- Needs Assessment: We help you define the technical specifications that match your clinical needs and patient volume.
- Multi-Vendor Quoting: We obtain and compare detailed quotes from multiple verified suppliers.
- Technical & Commercial Vetting: We analyze every line item to ensure transparency and value.
- End-to-End Logistics: We manage importation, customs clearance (including NNRA), and secure delivery to your site.
- Turnkey Project Management: We oversee site preparation, installation, calibration, and training.
- Compliance Assurance: We ensure all NNRA and SON requirements are met and documented.
- Flexible Financing: We provide access to tailored leasing and financing options.
best Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria
The best Bone Densitometry (DEXA) systems in Nigeria are typically from GE Healthcare's Lunar series or Hologic's Discovery series, with specific models suited for different facility types and budgets. The "best" machine is the one that reliably meets your clinical needs and patient throughput.
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Entry-Tier (Private Clinics & District Hospitals): Models like the GE Lunar Prodigy or Hologic Horizon C are excellent choices. Priced around NGN 35M - 45M, they offer fast, reliable fan-beam technology for core BMD measurements of the spine and hip. They are workhorses designed for efficiency in a screening environment.
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Mid-Tier (General Hospitals & Large Diagnostic Centres): The GE Lunar iDXA or Hologic Discovery A are ideal. In the NGN 45M - 58M range, they add crucial diagnostic capabilities like high-definition Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), which allows you to diagnose vertebral fractures from the same low-dose scan, improving clinical outcomes.
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Advanced-Tier (Teaching Hospitals & Research Institutions): The Hologic Horizon A is a top-tier option, costing NGN 55M+. It provides the highest resolution imaging, advanced body composition analysis for bariatric and sports medicine, and specialized tools like Trabecular Bone Score (TBS) for advanced fracture risk assessment, making it perfect for research and complex clinical cases.
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How to match tier to workload:
- < 10 patients/day: An entry-tier system is cost-effective and sufficient.
- 10-25 patients/day: A mid-tier system is necessary for its speed and advanced diagnostics (VFA).
- >25 patients/day or specialized services (bariatrics, research): An advanced-tier system is required for its throughput and specialized software modules.
compare Bone Densitometry (DEXA) models in Nigeria
Comparing Bone Densitometry (DEXA) models in Nigeria involves evaluating scan time, imaging technology (fan-beam is the modern standard), and advanced software features against your clinical needs and patient volume. A small clinic doesn't need a research-grade machine, and a teaching hospital would be underserved by a basic screening unit.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Requirement |
|---|
| Entry | Small clinics, screening centres | Fan-beam, AP Spine/Femur, ~3-5 min scan time | 10-16 weeks | Annual Preventive Maintenance (PM) | Dedicated 3-5kVA Online UPS |
| Mid | General hospitals, diagnostic centres | High-def fan-beam, VFA, < 3 min scan time | 8-12 weeks | Bi-annual PM, comprehensive contract | Dedicated 5kVA Online UPS |
| Advanced | Teaching hospitals, research | Ultra-high-def fan-beam, VFA, Body Comp, TBS, < 1 min scan | 8-12 weeks | OEM-led comprehensive service contract | Dedicated 5-7.5kVA Online UPS |
best Bone Densitometry (DEXA) brand in Nigeria
The best and most supported Bone Densitometry (DEXA) brands in Nigeria are GE Healthcare and Hologic. They are the global market leaders and have the most established sales and service presence in the country through qualified local partners. This ensures you have access to factory-trained engineers and a reliable supply chain for spare parts, which is critical for long-term operation. GE's Lunar series, including the Prodigy and iDXA models, is renowned for its robust hardware and user-friendly enCORE software platform. Hologic's Discovery and Horizon series are praised for their superior image resolution and advanced diagnostic tools like Integrated VFA and Trabecular Bone Score (TBS). Choosing either brand from a verified supplier is a safe and reliable investment for a Nigerian facility.
- Brand evaluation questions:
- How many factory-trained engineers for this specific brand are permanently based in Nigeria?
- What is the supplier's average lead time for a critical spare part, like an X-ray tube, for this brand?
- Can we speak to two other hospitals in our region using this brand to ask about their experience with uptime and support?
- Is the software interface intuitive and easy for our radiographers to learn and use efficiently?
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) price list in Nigeria (range only)
A Bone Densitometry (DEXA) price list in Nigeria is based on ranges, as final costs are project-specific and heavily influenced by logistics, accessories, and currency exchange rates.
- Entry-Tier (e.g., GE Lunar Prodigy): NGN 35,000,000 – NGN 45,000,000
- Mid-Tier (e.g., Hologic Discovery A): NGN 45,000,000 – NGN 58,000,000
- Advanced-Tier (e.g., Hologic Horizon A): NGN 55,000,000 and above
When you receive a quote, it should be a detailed proforma invoice, not a simple price list. For example, a mid-tier system quoted at NGN 50M for a facility in Lagos might cost NGN 53M for a facility in Kano due to higher inland logistics and engineer travel costs. The NGN/USD exchange rate is the single biggest variable; a 10% depreciation in the Naira between the quote and the final payment can add NGN 4-6 million to the final cost. Always clarify the exchange rate assumption with the supplier.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) specifications
The five most critical specifications for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system that directly impact clinical utility and financial return are its beam technology, scan time, software capabilities, detector technology, and patient table weight capacity.
- Beam Technology: Modern systems use Narrow-Angle Fan-Beam technology. This is vastly superior to older Pencil-Beam systems, reducing scan times from 10+ minutes to under 3 minutes. This directly increases your patient throughput and revenue potential.
- Software Capabilities: The inclusion of Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) is a must-have. It allows for imaging of the thoracic and lumbar spine to detect vertebral fractures, a key indicator of high fracture risk, without a separate X-ray. This provides a more complete diagnosis from a single, low-dose scan.
- Scan Time: For a standard AP Spine and Femur scan, look for a system with a scan time of less than 3 minutes. For high-volume centres, advanced systems can perform these scans in as little as 60 seconds.
- Detector Technology: High-resolution, direct-to-digital detectors provide sharper images and more precise BMD measurements. This improves diagnostic confidence, especially in subtle cases of bone loss.
- Patient Table Weight Capacity: A minimum capacity of 160 kg is standard. However, with the rising prevalence of obesity in Nigeria, opting for a table with a 200 kg capacity is a wise investment to ensure you can serve all patient demographics.
- Specs that change outcomes:
- Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) or Lateral Vertebral Assessment (LVA)
- Total Body Composition and Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) analysis
- Scan time under 3 minutes for spine and femur
- Patient weight capacity of 200kg
- DICOM and PACS compatibility for seamless integration with your hospital network
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) installation and calibration in Nigeria
A standard Bone Densitometry (DEXA) installation in Nigeria takes 3-5 working days on-site and costs between NGN 500,000 and NGN 1.5 million, a fee that should be clearly stated in your purchase agreement. The turnkey process begins weeks earlier with a site readiness assessment, where the vendor's engineer specifies room dimensions (typically 3m x 4m minimum), power requirements (a dedicated line), and air conditioning needs. Once the unit arrives, the engineer performs the physical assembly, connects it to the pre-installed dedicated UPS, and carries out the crucial OEM-protocol calibration using a specialized phantom. This ensures the machine's measurements are accurate and reproducible. The process concludes with comprehensive applications training for your radiographers.
- Do not sign off until you have…
- The signed and stamped engineer's installation report.
- The initial calibration certificate with documented phantom readings.
- All user manuals, service manuals, and software licenses.
- A signed certificate of completion for the applications training.
- Confirmation that the system is successfully connected to your network/PACS (if applicable).
turnkey Bone Densitometry (DEXA) installation in Nigeria (Franance)
Franance manages your entire turnkey Bone Densitometry (DEXA) installation, from site survey and room preparation to final calibration and NNRA certification, ensuring a seamless and compliant go-live for your service.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) delivery and logistics in Nigeria
Delivery and logistics for a new Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system from the factory in Europe or the USA to your facility in Nigeria typically takes 8-14 weeks and costs between 8% and 15% of the equipment's value. The process starts with 6-10 weeks for sea freight to a port like Apapa in Lagos. Upon arrival, you should plan for an additional 2-4 weeks for customs clearance, which is a complex process involving SON, Customs, and NNRA documentation. The supplier must have an NNRA import license to clear the equipment. After clearance, secure, insured inland logistics are arranged to transport the sensitive equipment to your hospital, which can take several days depending on your location.
- Logistics risk controls:
- Confirm your supplier is using a freight forwarder experienced in handling sensitive medical equipment.
- Insist on comprehensive, "all-risk" marine and inland transit insurance that covers the full value of the equipment from the factory to your door.
- Verify that the supplier will manage all customs and port documentation seamlessly.
- Build a 2-3 week buffer into your project timeline to account for potential port delays.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) warranty and service in Nigeria
Standard warranty for a new Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria is 12-24 months, covering all parts and the labour of the local engineer. For refurbished units, expect a shorter 6-12 month warranty with more limitations. After the warranty period, a comprehensive service contract is essential and typically costs 5-10% of the equipment's original value per year. When evaluating options, clarify if the warranty is a full OEM-backed warranty or a limited one from the local vendor. A strong Service Level Agreement (SLA) should guarantee an engineer's response time (e.g., on-site within 48 hours) and include at least two preventive maintenance visits per year to ensure the machine remains calibrated and performs optimally.
- Warranty terms to insist on:
- A minimum of 12 months comprehensive coverage on all parts, including the X-ray tube.
- A guaranteed engineer on-site response time of 48-72 hours.
- Inclusion of two scheduled preventive maintenance (PM) visits per year.
- Clear confirmation that all local travel and labour costs for the engineer are covered.
- A commitment to a local stock of common spare parts to minimize downtime.
refurbished Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria
Refurbished Bone Densitometry (DEXA) systems in Nigeria cost between NGN 25 million and NGN 40 million, offering a significant 30-50% saving compared to new units. The quality and reliability, however, depend entirely on the refurbishment process and the vendor's transparency. The best option is an "OEM-certified refurbished" system, where the original manufacturer (like GE or Hologic) rebuilds the unit to factory specifications, often including new software and a full 12-month warranty. Be cautious of units that are merely "cosmetically refurbished" (cleaned and painted) without any component replacement or rigorous testing. Always demand a detailed report of the work done.
- Refurb proof points:
- Request the detailed refurbishment report specifying which parts were tested, replaced, and recalibrated.
- Verify the manufacture date and usage history (scan count) of the X-ray tube.
- Insist on a minimum 6-month comprehensive warranty covering both parts and labour.
- Confirm that the software version is still supported and can be serviced.
- Ask for a reference site in Nigeria where the vendor has installed a similar refurbished model.
original vs fake Bone Densitometry (DEXA) - how to verify in Nigeria
To verify an original Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system, you must validate the unit's serial number directly with the OEM's regional office or through their official website and purchase only from a supplier who can provide a valid Letter of Authorization. While whole counterfeit DEXA machines are extremely rare, the bigger risk in Nigeria is in the supply of fake or substandard replacement parts, especially X-ray tubes, or vendors selling old, unsupported models as "new." Red flags include an unusually low price (e.g., 50% below market rate), missing or tampered serial number plates, poorly photocopied documentation with errors, and a supplier's inability to produce their OEM authorization.
- Spot counterfeit risk:
- The price is significantly lower than quotes from other authorized dealers.
- The supplier is not listed as an official partner on the OEM's website.
- The serial number plate on the machine appears altered, damaged, or is missing entirely.
- The supplier hesitates or refuses to provide their OEM authorization letter for your verification.
- The system is offered with outdated software that is no longer supported by the manufacturer.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) accessories & consumables in Nigeria
Essential accessories for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system include a calibration phantom, a set of patient positioning aids, and a dedicated online UPS, which can add NGN 2 million to NGN 5 million to the total project cost. The only regular consumable is printer paper or film, but most modern workflows are digital, sending results to a PACS. It is always more strategic and cost-effective to bundle all necessary accessories with the initial purchase of the main unit. This ensures compatibility and allows you to negotiate a better package price. Waiting to buy a UPS or positioning aids separately will invariably cost more and can delay the start of your services.
- Bundle with the main unit:
- A 5kVA+ Pure Sine Wave Online UPS: This is non-negotiable in Nigeria to protect the machine.
- Spine and Hip Phantoms: Essential for daily Quality Control (QC) and calibration.
- Patient Positioning Blocks/Aids: A complete set is needed for accurate and repeatable patient scans.
- A DICOM-compatible Printer: If you need to provide high-quality hard copy reports to patients or referring physicians.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) power requirements in Nigeria
A Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system requires a stable, clean 220-240V/50Hz single-phase power supply, protected by a dedicated 5kVA (or higher) pure sine wave online UPS and connected to a properly grounded electrical point. Due to the unreliable and fluctuating nature of the Nigerian power grid, you must never connect a DEXA scanner directly to a wall outlet or a low-quality generator. The online UPS is the most critical accessory; it continuously conditions the power, protecting the machine's sensitive detectors and X-ray controller boards from surges, sags, and spikes. A failure of these boards due to poor power can cost millions of Naira to replace and is often not covered by warranty.
- Power readiness checks:
- A dedicated, isolated power line run directly from your main distribution board to the DEXA room.
- A high-quality 5kVA (or 7.5kVA for advanced models) pure sine wave online UPS.
- A verified electrical earth connection with a resistance reading of less than 5 ohms.
- A backup generator equipped with an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) to provide stable output.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) compliance in Nigeria
To legally import and operate a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system in Nigeria, your facility must comply with regulations from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA). The equipment itself must also meet the import requirements of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). The NNRA is the primary regulatory body you will interact with. You will need to apply for an Authorization to Import, an Authorization to Install, and finally, a License to Operate the equipment. This process involves submitting a radiation safety plan for your facility, providing proof of training for your radiographers, and ensuring the room meets basic shielding requirements. Your chosen supplier should be licensed by the NNRA and must provide expert guidance and support throughout this entire registration process as part of their service.
- Compliance dossier items:
- Completed NNRA application forms (e.g., Form 1 for Authorization).
- A comprehensive Radiation Safety Program document for your facility.
- CVs and professional credentials of your licensed radiographers and reporting radiologist.
- The DEXA system's certificate of calibration and radiation leakage test report from the manufacturer.
- A room layout diagram indicating the operator's position and controlled areas.
financing & leasing for Bone Densitometry (DEXA) in Nigeria
Financing for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system in Nigeria is available through commercial bank loans, specialized medical equipment leasing companies, and integrated vendor financing like that offered by Franance. Commercial bank loans typically require 20-30% equity contribution and significant collateral, with interest rates ranging from 20-30% per annum and an approval timeline of 2-4 months. Leasing is often faster, with less collateral required, but may have a higher effective interest rate. Franance offers flexible financing and leasing structures specifically designed for medical equipment, with payment plans that can be tailored to your facility's projected revenue, making high-quality equipment more accessible.
- Finance questions to ask lenders:
- What is the effective annual interest rate and the total amount I will repay over the loan term?
- Are there any hidden charges, such as management fees, processing fees, or early repayment penalties?
- Is comprehensive equipment insurance included in the monthly payment, or do I need to arrange it separately?
- What are the exact collateral requirements for this facility?
- How long does your approval and disbursement process typically take?
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) total cost of ownership (TCO) in Nigeria
The 5-year Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a Bone Densitometry (DEXA) system in Nigeria is typically 1.5 to 2 times the initial purchase price. This means a system purchased for NGN 40 million will likely cost your facility a total of NGN 60-80 million to run over five years. The initial capital outlay is just the beginning. You must budget for recurring operational costs, including an annual service contract after the warranty expires (NGN 2-4 million/year), UPS battery replacements every 2-3 years (NGN 300k-500k), electricity costs from the UPS and air conditioner, and the salaries of the dedicated radiographer and support staff. Factoring in TCO helps you make a more sustainable investment decision.
- TCO levers to manage:
- Negotiate a multi-year (3-year) service contract at a discounted rate at the point of purchase.
- Invest in a high-quality online UPS to prevent expensive, out-of-warranty power-related damage.
- Ensure proper and continuous training for your operators to prevent user errors and maximize throughput.
- Choose an energy-efficient air conditioner for the DEXA room to manage electricity costs.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) for hospitals, clinics & NGOs in Nigeria
Tertiary/Teaching Hospital Bone Densitometry (DEXA)
Tertiary hospitals in Nigeria should procure high-end fan-beam DEXA systems like the GE Lunar iDXA or Hologic Horizon A, costing NGN 50M-65M+. These are required for high patient throughput, managing complex cases (e.g., pediatric or bariatric patients), training residents, and conducting clinical research. Key specifications must include one-minute scan times, high-definition Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA), and advanced body composition analysis with visceral fat measurement.
Private Clinic/Diagnostics Bone Densitometry (DEXA)
Private diagnostic centres should opt for mid-range fan-beam systems like the GE Lunar Prodigy or Hologic Discovery, priced between NGN 40M-55M. These models offer the best balance of speed (scans under 3 minutes), essential diagnostic capability (including VFA), and a strong return on investment for a typical outpatient workload of 10-20 scans per day. Their reliability and efficiency are key to a profitable service.
NGO/Mobile Bone Densitometry (DEXA)
For NGOs and mobile health initiatives focused on community screening, a robust, refurbished pencil-beam or basic fan-beam system is often the most practical choice due to lower cost (NGN 20M-30M) and simpler calibration needs. However, the primary challenge is power. The solution must include a high-capacity inverter and battery bank system that can be charged by a generator, as stable grid power will be unavailable in most field locations.
Emergency/Theatre/ICU Bone Densitometry (DEXA)
Bone Densitometry (DEXA) is a scheduled, outpatient diagnostic tool for assessing chronic bone conditions and is not used in emergency, theatre, or ICU settings. These acute care departments require real-time imaging for trauma and surgical guidance, for which the appropriate equipment would be a Mobile X-ray unit or a C-arm fluoroscopy machine.