Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening

Wayne Radiologists is a designated Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Low-dose CT Lung Cancer Screening is designed for patients who have a high risk of developing lung cancer, but show no signs or symptoms of the disease.

What is Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening and how does the process work?

Low-dose CT lung cancer screening is a CT scan of the chest performed using a low dose of radiation to produce thin cross-sectional images of the lungs. These images are ideal for detecting small nodules that could be cancerous. The CT scan requires no prep and takes around ten minutes to complete. Before your first lung cancer screening exam, you must schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor to discuss the benefits and risks of lung cancer screening.

Am I eligible?

US Preventative Task Force and radiology societies recommend annual screening for people who meet the following criteria:

• Age 50-80 years old
• Have a “20 pack-year” or greater history of smoking (one pack a day for 20 years)
• A current smoker or a former smoker who quit within the last 15 years.

Will my insurance cover the cost of the exam?

Coverage and eligibility requirements vary so please check with your insurance carrier to see if the exam is covered prior to your appointment. It's important to note that Medicare and Medicaid only covers annual screening for patients age 50-77 with a 20 pack-year history.

How to schedule an appointment?

If you meet this criteria, please contact your primary care physician for a referral to our office.

How will I find out the results of my exam?

Technologists are not allowed to give exam results. In most cases you will not know the results of your exam before you leave our office. A written copy of the results will be sent to the doctor who ordered your exam within 24-48 hours.