Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Unfortunately, lung cancer is most often discovered at a late stage. When lung cancer is found at an early stage, there is a greater chance for a cure, making screening and early detection critical. Recent scientific studies have determined that lung cancer deaths can be reduced by as much as 20 percent when low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans are used as a screening tool.
If you meet the following screening guidelines, you may be eligible for a screening exam. CT scans may help detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable. Please call your primary care physician to discuss this option.
Criteria for Low-Dose CT Scan
Low-dose CT (LDCT) lung screening exams are covered by Medicare and private insurance if the patient meets the following criteria*:
- Between 50-77 years of age
- Asymptomatic (has no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
- Has a 20 pack-year or more smoking history. Speak with your physician. (Ex: 1 pack of 20 cigarettes a day for 20 years = 20 pack-year-history)
- Is a current smoker or quit smoking within the last 15 years
- You get an order from your doctor.
*This information is based on guidelines approved by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
Results
Participants in the low-dose lung cancer screening program are monitored by a CT registered radiologic technologist, who works with your primary care provider or lung care provider to follow up as needed.
Schedule Your Screening
For more information, consult with your primary care or lung care provider. If you meet the criteria for the low-dose CT scan, you will need an order from your primary care or lung care provider prior to scheduling your screening.
To schedule your screening, call the hospital where you'd like to have your screening take place.
- Willow Creek Women's Hospital in Johnson – (479) 757-4135
- Siloam Springs Regional Hospital – (479) 215-3420
- Northwest Medical Center-Springdale – (479) 757-4135
- Northwest Medical Center-Bentonville – (479) 757-4135
In addition to low-dose lung CT scans, Northwest Health provides evaluations for pulmonary, cardiothoracic surgery and oncology as part of the lung cancer screening program.
If these guidelines apply to you, you should have a conversation with your doctor or healthcare provider about lung cancer CT screening.
If these guidelines do not apply to you, but you are still concerned about your risk for lung cancer, we encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider.