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Dexa Scans Private Bone Density Tests

WeCovr Editorial Team · experienced insurance advisers
Last updated Feb 20, 2026
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TL;DR

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. This guide explains private DEXA scans for bone density and how they interact with your health cover, giving you the clarity needed to protect your future health.

Key takeaways

  • T-score: This compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult of the same sex. It's the most common score used to diagnose osteoporosis.
  • Z-score: This compares your bone density to other people of your same age, sex, and ethnicity. It's often used for pre-menopausal women, men under 50, and children.
  • -1.0 or above: Your bone density is considered normal.
  • Between -1.0 and -2.5: You have low bone mass, a condition known as osteopenia. This is a warning sign that you are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
  • -2.5 or below: You have osteoporosis, meaning your bones are significantly weaker and more prone to fracture.

As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands the UK private medical insurance market inside and out. This guide explains private DEXA scans for bone density and how they interact with your health cover, giving you the clarity needed to protect your future health.

Learn what a DEXA scan is and PMI coverage

A DEXA scan is the gold standard for measuring bone strength. It's a vital tool for diagnosing conditions like osteoporosis before a painful fracture occurs. But when it comes to paying for it, the lines between the NHS, self-funding, and private medical insurance can seem blurry.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We'll explore what a DEXA scan involves, who needs one, and the crucial question: will your private health cover pay for it? Understanding this is key to making informed decisions about your health and your insurance.

What is a DEXA Scan and Why is it Important?

A DEXA scan, which stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry, is a specialised, high-precision type of X-ray. Its primary purpose is to measure your bone mineral density (BMD), giving a clear picture of how strong and healthy your bones are.

Think of your skeleton as the scaffolding of your body. Over time, this scaffolding can lose density and become more fragile. A DEXA scan is like a structural survey that checks for any weaknesses.

The scan produces two main scores:

  • T-score: This compares your bone density to that of a healthy young adult of the same sex. It's the most common score used to diagnose osteoporosis.
  • Z-score: This compares your bone density to other people of your same age, sex, and ethnicity. It's often used for pre-menopausal women, men under 50, and children.

Here's what your T-score means:

  • -1.0 or above: Your bone density is considered normal.
  • Between -1.0 and -2.5: You have low bone mass, a condition known as osteopenia. This is a warning sign that you are at higher risk of developing osteoporosis.
  • -2.5 or below: You have osteoporosis, meaning your bones are significantly weaker and more prone to fracture.

Maintaining good bone density is not just about avoiding broken bones. Strong bones support your muscles, protect your vital organs, and enable you to lead an active, independent life well into your later years.

Understanding Osteoporosis and Osteopenia in the UK

Osteoporosis is often called the "silent disease" because it develops without any symptoms until a bone breaks. It causes bones to become weak and brittle, so that a minor fall or even a sudden sneeze can cause a fracture.

According to the Royal Osteoporosis Society, an estimated 3.5 million people in the UK are living with osteoporosis. The condition leads to over 500,000 fractures every year – that's one every minute.

Osteopenia is the precursor to osteoporosis. It means your bone density is lower than normal but not yet low enough to be classed as osteoporosis. It’s a critical warning sign that you need to take action to protect your bones.

Key Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

While bone density naturally declines with age, certain factors can accelerate this process. Understanding your personal risk is the first step towards prevention.

Risk CategorySpecific Risk Factors
Non-ModifiableAge: Risk increases significantly after 50.
Gender: Women are more at risk, especially after menopause due to the drop in oestrogen.
Family History: Having a parent who had a hip fracture increases your risk.
Ethnicity: Caucasian and Asian individuals are at higher risk.
Previous Fractures: A fracture from a minor fall (a 'fragility fracture') is a major red flag.
Medical ConditionsRheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease, hyperthyroidism, and some chronic kidney or liver diseases.
Conditions that cause long periods of immobility.
MedicationsLong-term use of high-dose steroid tablets (corticosteroids).
Certain treatments for breast cancer (aromatase inhibitors) and prostate cancer.
Lifestyle FactorsLow Calcium & Vitamin D: Essential building blocks for bone.
Lack of Exercise: Particularly weight-bearing exercise.
Heavy Drinking: Consuming more than 14 units of alcohol per week.
Smoking: Smoking is directly toxic to bone-building cells.
Low Body Weight: Having a BMI below 19.

If several of these risk factors apply to you, it's wise to discuss your bone health with your GP.

How Does a Private DEXA Scan Work?

The good news is that having a DEXA scan is a simple, quick, and completely painless procedure.

What to expect on the day:

  1. Preparation: You'll be asked to avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before the scan. You can eat and drink normally otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips, belts, or buttons.
  2. The Scan: You'll lie on your back on a padded table. A large scanning arm will pass slowly over your body. You need to stay still, but the process is non-invasive and you won't feel a thing. The machine doesn't touch you.
  3. Duration: The entire scan typically takes only 10 to 20 minutes.
  4. Areas Scanned: The most common areas measured are the lower spine (lumbar spine) and the hip, as these are common sites for osteoporotic fractures. Sometimes the forearm may also be scanned.
  5. Radiation Dose: A DEXA scan uses a very low dose of radiation. The exposure is less than you'd receive from a day's worth of natural background radiation, or about the same as a short-haul flight. It's considered extremely safe.

After the scan, a radiologist or specialist will analyse the images and prepare a report detailing your bone mineral density and T-scores. This report is then sent to your referring doctor or consultant to discuss with you.

Getting a DEXA Scan: NHS vs. Private Routes

There are two main pathways to getting a DEXA scan in the UK: through the NHS or by arranging it privately.

The NHS Pathway

To get a DEXA scan on the NHS, you will almost always need a referral from your GP. The NHS follows specific guidelines, set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), to decide who is eligible.

You are likely to be referred if you:

  • Are over 50 and have had a fragility fracture.
  • Are under 40 and have major risk factors (e.g., long-term steroid use).
  • Have a medical condition known to affect bone health.
  • Are undergoing treatment that can cause bone loss.

The main drawback of the NHS route can be waiting times. While urgent cases are prioritised, non-urgent referrals for diagnostic tests can sometimes involve a wait of several weeks or even months, depending on local demand.

The Private Pathway

Opting for a private DEXA scan offers speed and convenience. You can often self-refer to a private hospital or clinic, although some may still prefer a GP's letter.

The primary benefits are:

  • Speed: You can typically book an appointment within days.
  • Convenience: Choose a time and location that suits you.
  • Peace of Mind: You don't need to meet strict referral criteria. You can have a scan for your own information, for example, to establish a baseline bone density reading.

The main consideration is the cost. A private DEXA scan typically costs between £150 and £400, depending on the clinic and location.

NHS vs. Private DEXA Scan: A Comparison

FeatureNHS PathwayPrivate Pathway
ReferralGP referral is mandatorySelf-referral is often possible
EligibilityMust meet strict clinical criteriaOpen to anyone willing to pay
CostFree at the point of use£150 - £400 (self-funded)
Waiting TimeCan be weeks or monthsUsually a matter of days
PurposePrimarily for diagnosis based on risk/symptomsDiagnosis, screening, or peace of mind

Does Private Medical Insurance Cover DEXA Scans?

This is the most common question we receive, and the answer requires a clear understanding of how private medical insurance (PMI) works in the UK.

The fundamental principle of standard UK PMI is that it is designed to cover the diagnosis and treatment of new, acute conditions that arise after your policy has started.

Crucially, PMI does not cover pre-existing conditions or the management of chronic conditions.

A DEXA scan is a diagnostic test. Therefore, whether it is covered depends entirely on the reason for the scan.

When a DEXA Scan is LIKELY to be Covered

Your insurer is likely to approve cover for a DEXA scan if it is part of the diagnostic process for a new, eligible medical condition.

Example:

  • You are 58, have a PMI policy, and have never had bone issues.
  • You trip over a rug at home and suffer a painful wrist fracture.
  • Your orthopaedic consultant, whom you are seeing via your PMI, is concerned that the severity of the fracture is unusual for such a minor fall.
  • The consultant refers you for a DEXA scan to investigate whether undiagnosed osteoporosis could be the underlying cause.

In this scenario, the DEXA scan is a necessary step to diagnose the cause of your acute problem (the unexpectedly severe fracture). Therefore, it would very likely be covered under the outpatient diagnostic benefits of your policy, provided you have sufficient cover.

When a DEXA Scan is UNLIKELY to be Covered

A DEXA scan will almost certainly not be covered by standard PMI if it is for:

  1. Routine Screening: You have no symptoms but want a scan due to your age or family history. This is considered preventative and is excluded.
  2. Monitoring a Pre-existing Condition: You were diagnosed with osteopenia or osteoporosis before you took out your policy. A scan to monitor the condition's progress would be excluded.
  3. General Health Checks: If the scan is part of a general "health MOT" without a specific medical problem being investigated, it won't be covered.

The Golden Rule: Always Get Pre-Authorisation Never assume a test will be covered. Before you book a private DEXA scan, you or your specialist must contact your insurance provider to get a pre-authorisation code. They will assess the clinical reason for the scan and confirm whether it meets the terms of your policy. Failing to do this could leave you responsible for the full cost.

As an expert PMI broker, WeCovr can help you understand the nuances of different policies and their rules around diagnostics before you buy.

How to Choose the Right PMI Policy for Diagnostic Cover

When choosing a private medical insurance UK policy, the level of cover for diagnostic tests is a key differentiator. These tests fall under your "outpatient" benefits.

Policies are generally structured in three tiers:

  1. Basic/Inpatient Only: These policies cover you only when you are admitted to a hospital bed. They typically offer very limited or no cover for outpatient diagnostics like DEXA scans.
  2. Mid-Range: These policies offer a set limit for outpatient consultations and diagnostics. For example, you might have a limit of £1,000 per policy year. This would usually be sufficient to cover a DEXA scan and the related consultant appointments.
  3. Comprehensive: These policies offer the most extensive cover, often with "full cover" for outpatient diagnostics, meaning there's no set monetary limit (though "fair and reasonable" cost clauses apply).

Comparing Outpatient Cover Levels

Level of CoverOutpatient Diagnostics (e.g., DEXA)Typical Use Case
BasicNo cover or very limited (e.g., post-op only)For those wanting cover only for major surgery. Not suitable for diagnostics.
Mid-RangeCapped, e.g., £500, £1,000, or £1,500 per yearA good balance of cover and cost. Sufficient for most diagnostic pathways.
ComprehensiveFull cover (no annual monetary limit)For those wanting complete peace of mind and access to extensive diagnostics without financial caps.

When comparing providers, it’s essential to look at these outpatient limits. An experienced PMI broker can be invaluable here. WeCovr's team can compare the small print from all the best PMI providers to find a policy that matches your specific needs and budget, saving you time and potential confusion.

Lifestyle and Prevention: Protecting Your Bone Health

While insurance is a safety net, prevention is always the best medicine. You have significant power to influence your bone health throughout your life.

1. Champion a Bone-Friendly Diet

  • Calcium: This is the primary mineral in your bones. Adults need 700mg per day. Rich sources include milk, cheese, yoghurt, fortified plant-based milks, leafy greens like kale (but not spinach, as its calcium isn't easily absorbed), and fish with edible bones like sardines.
  • Vitamin D: This vitamin is essential for your body to absorb calcium. The best source is sunlight on your skin. From October to March in the UK, the sun isn't strong enough, so the NHS recommends everyone considers a daily 10-microgram supplement. Oily fish, red meat, and fortified cereals are also good food sources.

To help you keep track of your intake, WeCovr provides all our health and life insurance clients with complimentary access to CalorieHero, our AI-powered calorie and nutrient tracking app. You can use it to monitor your daily calcium and Vitamin D consumption easily.

2. Embrace Weight-Bearing Exercise

Your skeleton strengthens itself in response to impact and resistance.

  • Weight-Bearing Exercise: Activities where your feet and legs support your body weight are best. This includes brisk walking, jogging, dancing, tennis, and stair climbing. Aim for at least 30 minutes, five times a week.
  • Resistance Exercise: Activities that make your muscles work against a force help to strengthen both muscles and bones. This includes using weight machines at a gym, lifting free weights, or using resistance bands.

3. Make Smart Lifestyle Choices

  • Stop Smoking: Smoking reduces the blood supply to the bones and slows down the production of bone-forming cells.
  • Moderate Alcohol: Regularly drinking more than the recommended 14 units per week is linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis.
  • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being underweight (a BMI below 19) is a significant risk factor for poor bone health.

By adopting these habits, you can build a strong "bone bank" in your youth and slow down the rate of bone loss as you age, significantly reducing your risk of future fractures.

As a WeCovr client, you can also benefit from discounts on other types of cover, such as life insurance, helping you build a comprehensive financial safety net for your family.

Real-Life Scenarios: When is a DEXA Scan Covered?

Let's look at some practical examples to make the insurance rules clearer.

Scenario 1: Sarah – LIKELY COVERED

  • Situation: Sarah, 55, took out a comprehensive PMI policy last year. She has no history of bone problems. While gardening, she slips and fractures her ankle. Her private consultant is surprised by the break and wants to rule out an underlying issue. He refers her for a DEXA scan.
  • Outcome: Sarah calls her insurer for pre-authorisation. Because the scan is to investigate the cause of a new, acute injury that occurred during her policy term, the insurer approves it under her outpatient diagnostics benefit.

Scenario 2: David – NOT COVERED

  • Situation: David is 62. His mother had osteoporosis, and he's read about the risks. He feels perfectly fine but wants a DEXA scan for peace of mind and to get a baseline reading.
  • Outcome: This is a preventative screening test. It is not investigating a new symptom or condition. Standard private health cover does not pay for screening, so David would need to self-fund the scan.

Scenario 3: Mary – NOT COVERED

  • Situation: Mary, 68, was diagnosed with osteopenia seven years ago, long before she bought her current PMI policy. Her GP recommends a routine two-yearly DEXA scan to see if her bone density has changed.
  • Outcome: This scan is for monitoring a known pre-existing and chronic condition. All UK PMI policies exclude cover for pre-existing conditions and the long-term management of chronic issues. Mary's insurer would decline cover, and she would either use the NHS or self-fund the private scan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a DEXA scan itself considered a pre-existing condition?

No, a DEXA scan is a diagnostic test, not a medical condition. However, the reason for the scan is what matters for insurance. If you need a scan to monitor a condition you had before your policy started (like pre-diagnosed osteoporosis), it won't be covered because it relates to a pre-existing condition. If it's to diagnose a new problem, it may be covered.

Do I need a GP referral for a private DEXA scan if I'm using my PMI?

Generally, yes. While some private clinics allow self-referral for self-funded scans, private medical insurers almost always require a referral from a specialist consultant or sometimes a GP. This is to ensure the scan is medically necessary to diagnose a specific condition, rather than for screening, which they do not cover.

What happens if my DEXA scan reveals osteoporosis? Will my PMI cover the treatment?

This is a critical point. If osteoporosis is newly diagnosed via a covered diagnostic process, your PMI will typically cover the initial specialist consultations and tests to stabilise the condition. However, osteoporosis is a chronic (long-term) condition. Ongoing management, including long-term medication prescriptions and follow-up monitoring scans, will not be covered by standard PMI and will be passed back to the NHS for long-term care. PMI is for acute conditions, not chronic care.

Can I get private health cover if I already have osteoporosis?

Yes, you can absolutely get private health cover. However, the osteoporosis itself, along with any related consultations, scans, or treatments, will be specifically excluded from your policy as a pre-existing condition. Your policy would still cover you for new, unrelated acute conditions that arise after you join.

Navigating the world of private medical insurance can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Understanding what is and isn't covered is the key to finding real value and security in a policy.

Ready to find a private health cover plan that protects you and your family? The friendly, expert team at WeCovr is here to help. We compare policies from across the UK's leading insurers to find the right cover for your needs and budget, all at no cost to you.

Get your free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today and take the first step towards peace of mind.

Sources

  • NHS England: Waiting times and referral-to-treatment statistics.
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS): Health, mortality, and workforce data.
  • NICE: Clinical guidance and technology appraisals.
  • Care Quality Commission (CQC): Provider quality and inspection reports.
  • UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA): Public health surveillance reports.
  • Association of British Insurers (ABI): Health and protection market publications.
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WeCovr is an FCA‑regulated insurance broker. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy via us. This guide is written to be impartial and informational.

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Outpatient cover includes consultations, physiotherapy, and mental health therapies outside hospital admissions.

Yes, you can use your health insurance cover immediately. You have access to a nurse through your helpline and can consult with a GP using the digital GP app. If you need to make a claim right away, we may require a medical report from your GP. Health insurance is designed to cover new conditions that arise after the policy has started.

No, health insurance does not cover A&E (Accident and Emergency) visits. Private hospitals do not typically have the facilities for handling A&E cases. In case of an emergency, please dial 999 or use the NHS emergency services. However, if you require follow-up treatment after an emergency situation, your private medical insurance may be able to assist.

Yes, many insurers offer rewards in leisure, wellbeing, and health. Speak to WeCovr's experts or visit your insurer's website for more details on member rewards.

You may continue your cover or get another own personal policy. If you continue your cover, existing or ongoing medical conditions might be covered depending on the level of cover you choose. Contact our friendly experts to discuss your options and find the right option for you.

You can tap one of the buttons above or below and fill in a quick form to arrange a call with us to discuss your options.

Your cover may be similar but not identical. We will help you find the right level of cover that suits your needs, and ongoing medical conditions may be covered. Contact our friendly advisers to explore all available options.

No, the price won't be the same as before since employers often contribute to the cost of employee cover. Additionally, different cover levels and medical histories may affect the price. Contact WeCovr's experts for detailed information.

You have a few weeks or months from leaving your job to decide to continue with your insurer or change to another one. Your policy may start the day after you left your work policy, and our experts can guide you through other available options.

After leaving your job, contact WeCovr's experts with your leave date to discuss available options.

Yes, ongoing treatment may be covered on your new personal policy, although it could affect the price. Contact our experts for personalised advice on your options.

Details on paying excess fees will be provided when you contact your insurer for treatment authorisation.

No, there is no excess fee for utilising these services.

Excess adjustments can be made at specific intervals during your policy term.

No claims discounts can impact renewal costs based on claims history.

Pre-existing conditions typically aren't covered but can be discussed with our healthcare specialists.

This involves health-related questions before policy enrolment to determine coverage.

Moratorium underwriting simplifies enrolment but may require health disclosures during claims.

Claims may require additional information if under moratorium underwriting.

Pre-existing conditions refer to medical issues existing before policy inception. A pre-existing condition is anything you've previously had medical treatment for, such as diabetes, heart disease, or asthma. Most insurance providers consider any condition you've had symptoms or treatment for in the past five years as pre-existing. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how pre-existing conditions affect your policy options.

While some insurance providers automatically renew your private healthcare cover, it's beneficial to compare policies when yours is about to end. This ensures you're still getting the best deal for the coverage you need. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in finding the right policy for you.

Typically, you must be over 18 to take out your own policy, but minors can usually be included in a family policy. There may also be an upper age limit for private health insurance, and premiums typically increase with age. Our experts at WeCovr can provide guidance on age-related policy aspects.

Paying for health insurance annually often results in savings compared to monthly payments. However, this depends on your insurance provider. For help determining the most cost-effective option, consider consulting our experts at WeCovr.

If your employer offers private health insurance as part of your benefits package, you likely don't need additional cover. However, there may be limits on the cover you receive, and it may not extend to your entire family. Remember, any insurance you get through work only covers you while you're employed there.

If you don't have pre-existing conditions, a medical exam is usually not required. You'll just need to complete a medical history form and select your level of cover. However, if you're older, have a pre-existing condition, or lead an unhealthy lifestyle, a medical exam may be necessary. Our experts at WeCovr can clarify the requirements of different policies.

Many private health insurance providers now offer GP services, either digitally or face-to-face. This means you can often get a private GP appointment quickly, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer GP services.

With private health insurance, you can often secure a GP appointment much quicker than with traditional methods, sometimes even on the same day. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer quick GP appointment services.

Inpatient care refers to any treatment requiring a stay in a hospital or clinic for at least one night. Outpatient care refers to treatments or tests that don't require hospital admission, such as minor diagnostic tests or physiotherapy sessions. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand the different types of care and find a policy that suits your needs.

Private health insurance covers your medical treatment if you fall ill, while critical illness cover provides additional financial help if you develop one of the critical illnesses listed in the policy, such as covering loss of income if you're unable to work. For assistance in understanding the differences and finding the right coverage, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Health insurance policies are designed for cover in the UK. For cover abroad, consider travel insurance for short trips or international health insurance for longer stays or if you have a holiday home overseas. Our experts at WeCovr can guide you in finding the appropriate coverage for your travel needs.

If your employer provides health insurance, it's considered a 'benefit in kind' and is not tax deductible. Your employer should calculate the tax you owe for your health insurance premiums and deduct it from your pay. There are some exceptions for small companies. For more information on tax implications, consider reaching out to our experts at WeCovr.

When you purchase a policy, you choose how much excess you pay, which is your contribution to the cost of treatment if you make a claim. The higher your excess, the lower your premium is likely to be. Our experts at WeCovr can help you understand how excess works and choose the right level for you.

These are two methods of underwriting a health insurance policy, relating to how insurance providers consider your pre-existing medical conditions when you take out cover. For help understanding the differences and choosing the right option for you, consult our experts at WeCovr.

Some private health insurance providers offer a no-claims discount, similar to car insurance. Every year you don't make a claim gives you an extra year of no-claims discount, potentially reducing your premium when you renew. Our experts at WeCovr can help you find policies that offer no-claims discounts.

To find the best health insurance for you, compare various policies to find one that offers the features you need at a price you can afford. Consider your personal circumstances and what you want from your policy. Our experts at WeCovr can assist you in evaluating your options and selecting the right coverage for you.

If you need treatment, a GP referral is not always necessary. However, this depends on how you plan to pay for your treatment. Most hospitals will allow you to book appointments with a consultant without a GP referral if you are paying out-of-pocket. If you have private medical insurance, you'll need to check the terms of your policy to see whether your insurer requires you to consult with a GP first (most insurers do). Some policies offer a direct booking system without a referral for certain conditions, such as counseling for mental health issues.

Yes, you can obtain financing for a loan to cover the cost of surgery. Many private healthcare companies have partnerships with finance companies to allow you to spread the cost of private treatment over time. You could also explore getting an ordinary loan from your bank if this option proves to be more cost-effective for you.

WeCovr has conducted extensive research into the cost of private health insurance in the UK. Click the link to find out more detailed information.

Yes, you can continue to receive treatment through the NHS even if you have private health insurance and have received private treatment in the past. This could be for rehabilitation after private surgery or for treatment that is not covered by your health insurance policy. For example, some cosmetic surgeries may be available through the NHS but are generally not covered by private medical insurance.

This is a difficult question to answer definitively. There are certain services that cannot be obtained privately, such as emergency treatment at an Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Many NHS consultants also practice privately, so you could potentially see the same consultant regardless of whether you choose private or public healthcare. However, private healthcare typically offers shorter waiting times, guaranteed private rooms, and more relaxed visiting hours. Additionally, you may have access to treatments and drugs that are not routinely available through the NHS.

Yes, you can self-refer to a private specialist without the need for a GP referral. However, the British Medical Association believes that in most cases, it is best practice to start with your GP, as they are familiar with your medical history.

Yes, if you have a health concern and pay for private tests and scans but cannot afford to have private surgery, you should be able to have your test results transferred to an NHS provider for treatment.

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