Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening

Take A Lung Health Assessment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among both men and women in the United States. Patient usually show no obvious signs of lung cancer until it is in a late stage, when it is difficult to treat. Lung cancer screening is used to detect lung cancer early, when it is more treatable. A low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan is recommended for people at high risk for lung cancer.

Georgetown Community Hospital is a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance (LCA) and a designated Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology (ACR). We are committed to responsible lung cancer screening and dedicated to provides patients with the highest quality care. 

If you are a current or former smoker, a low-dose CT screening could save your life! Discuss your medical history, the risks of screening and benefits with your doctor. In order to be covered by Medicare, you must visit your doctor and have an order. Your provider may schedule a low-dose CT lung cancer screening by calling 833.234.4050.

It's A Yearly Check

Lung cancer screening is a regular preventive health check, like a mammogram or colonoscopy. It checks your lungs while you are healthy and looks for any changes from year to year. 

When is LDCT lung cancer screening recommended?

Early detection of lung cancer in high-risk patients is critical. You are considered high risk if you:

• • • Are between the ages of 50 and 77 (Medicare covers up to 77 years of age, but private insurance may cover up to 80 years of age), and
    • Have a smoking history of 20 pack years (1 pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years), and
    • Currently smoke or have quit smoking within the last 15 years

Other risk factors include: 

• Radon or occupational carcinogen exposure (asbestos, arsenic, diesel fumes, etc.)
• Family history of lung cancer
• COPD or pulmonary fibrosis
• Personal history of cancer or lymphoma

Is This Screening Covered By My Insurance? 

Your insurance may or may not cover the cost of a low-dose CT screening for the detection of early-stage lung cancer. This screening is covered by Medicare when ordered by your doctor after a lung cancer screening counseling appointment. Most commercial insurance plans follow Medicare guidelines and may require a precertification based on individual policy criteria. Check with your insurance plan to find out about your screening coverage. Cost of self-pay is $150 and will be due at the time of service. A flexible spending account may be used to cover the cost of this screening. 

What Happens During A Lung Cancer Screening? 

During the screening, an LDCT scan creates a detailed 3-D picture of your lungs. This scan will expose you to a low dose of radiation. LDCT uses 90% less radiation than a traditional CT scan and does not require any needles or medicines. Your doctor or provider may ask for more tests if he or she sees something on the scan.  

How Will The Findings Be Interpreted & Reported? 

The study will be reviewed and interpreted by a board certified radiologist. Please note you may receive a separate bill from the radiologist. The report will be sent to the provider that ordered the low-dose CT screen and they will be informed if additional follow-up is needed. A nurse navigator will follow up on all positive results. 

What You Can Do

• If you are a smoker, start a plan to quit. We can help! 
• Make your home and work environment smoke-free. 
• Be aware of occupational exposures. 

If you are still smoking, talk to your provider about ways to help you quit. Georgetown Community Hospital offers Freedom From Smoking®. Small groups will meet once a week for seven weeks to: 

Learn how to prepare to quit

• Medicines that can help you stop smoking (Partnering with Wedco District Health Department for Nicotine Replacement Therapy)
• Managing stress
• Avoiding weight gain
• Establish a Quit Day
• Develop the skills to remain smoke-free 
• Find support for maintaining a smoke-free lifestyle
• To register for the Freedom from Smoking® program or for more information on lung cancer screening, please call Miranda Harrison at 502.316.5895