The only recommended screening test for lung cancer is a low-dose computed tomography of the chest (also called a low-dose CT scan, or LDCT). During an LDCT scan, you are asked to lie on a table and an X-ray machine using a low dose (amount) of radiation takes detailed images of your lungs. The scan only takes a few minutes, is painless and is not a closed system.

If the LDCT reveals any abnormal findings, a recommendation is made according to current guidelines. If a suspicious nodule is found, additional imaging studies such as a PET CT scan may be indicated and sometimes a biopsy may be necessary to confirm whether a nodule is cancer or not.

The Risks and Benefits of Screening

As part of the screening process, you will meet in-person or by phone with our nurse practitioner to discuss the benefits and risks before making an informed decision together (shared-decision making visit).

Benefits:

• Lung cancer found at an early stage is associated with better survival
• Smoking cessation counseling is offered as part of the lung cancer screening

Risks:

• Abnormal findings may be identified that are not related to cancer (false positive)
• Exposure to low-dose of radiation
• Overdiagnosis or Missed diagnosis
• Additional testing
• Emotional Stress

What is the cost of LDCT?

Lung cancer screening is covered 100% by Medicare and Private Insurers if the individual is eligible as per current guidelines.

If the individual is eligible and does not have insurance, a discounted fee for the chest CT screening may be offered. The fee is currently $99.

Lung Cancer Screening Resources

• GO2 Lung Cancer Foundation
• American Lung Association
• The American Cancer Society
• The National Cancer Institute
• Smoking Cessation Program Referrals (University of Miami/Tobacco Free Florida/CDC)
• Tobacco Free Florida
• Lung Cancer Screening Risk Calculator- NCI Risk Based NLST Outcomes Tool (RNOT)