Lung Cancer Screening
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. CT scans are a quick, easy and painless test that can detect lung cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable. The entire process takes about 20 minutes.
Anyone interested in a CT lung cancer screening must meet either the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) or Medicare/Medicaid high-risk criteria.
When scheduling the screening, patients must provide the name of the primary care physician who should receive the results.
Individuals with signs or symptoms of lung cancer do not qualify for a lung cancer screening.
NCCN High-Risk Criteria:
- Age 50 to 77
- Asymptomatic (no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
- Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years (one pack-year = smoking one pack per day for one year; 1 pack = 20 cigarettes)
- Current smoker or one who has quit smoking within the last 15 years.
- Patient received a counseling and shared decision-making visit prior to the initial low dose CT
Medicare/Medicaid High-Risk Criteria:
- Age 55 to 77
- Have smoked a pack a day for 30 years or more
- Quit smoking less than 15 years ago
Must first meet with a physician in person and that physician must order the screening; the physician must also complete attestation indicating the patient meets Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) high‑risk criteria
For more information, call (575) 556-6600 to schedule an appointment.