Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening

LDCT (Low-Dose Computed Tomography) works much like an x-ray to produce pictures of your chest and lungs. This screening detects lung abnormalities with less radiation than a conventional CT scan. The CT machine takes a detailed picture of your lungs that helps your physician locate anything abnormal. The scan takes less than 30 seconds and can detect extremely small nodules - meaning cancer can be found in its earliest stages when it's most treatable.

• Capable of detecting very small but potentially cancerous cells at the earliest stage for the least invasive treatment
• Only takes a few moments of your time
• Painless, non-invasive and without any immediate side effects
• 90% less radiation than a conventional CT scan
• Proven to reduce the number of deaths from lung cancer among high risk patients

If you would like to undergo a lung screening, the first step is to make an appointment with your primary care provider. This appointment will be a time to discuss your age, smoking history and other factors in order for your physician to determine if you are eligible for screening. If you are eligible, your primary care provider will schedule your LDCT scan.

Your primary care provider (PCP) will follow up with you to explain your results and discuss any additional necessary medical care. Should an abnormality be detected, you will have the option of scheduling a meeting at our Lung Nodule Clinic to discuss your screening and next steps including non-surgical and surgical biopsy options.

Medicare now covers the cost of LDCT screening for high risk patients. Many private health insurers provide coverage as well. Your physician will give you more specific details about eligibility and costs during your consultation. If you do not meet criteria or do not have health coverage, Sovah Health - Martinsville offers LDCT scans at a reduced self-pay cost.

If you have ever been a smoker and answer "yes" to these questions, you may be considered high risk for lung cancer:

1. 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
2. Have a smoking history of 20 pack years (1 pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years), and
3. Currently smoke or have quit smoking within the last 15 years

Talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of a low-dose CT. This lung screening may be recommended or you may request it. To find a doctor to take care of your lungs, call 844.GO.SOVAH.

If you have already been diagnosed with a lung nodule, commonly called a "spot on the lung", your doctor can refer you to our Lung Nodule Clinic in Martinsville or you are able to self refer. Click HERE to learn more about our Lung Nodule Clinic.