Low-Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening

Stop lung cancer in its tracks.

If you are a smoker or a former smoker, a simple screening at a Highpoint Health with Ascension Saint Thomas facility could save your life. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. 和 80% of cases occur in cigarette smokers. Studies show that lung CT scans using low doses of radiation can effectively detect lung cancer in its earliest stages 和 most importantly, lower your risk of dying from lung cancer.

A low-dose lung screening is capable of detecting very small but potentially cancerous cells at the earliest stages, which may allow for the least invasive treatment options.

What is LDCT lung cancer screening?

LDCT (low-dose computed tomography) works much like an x-ray exam to produce pictures of your chest 和 lungs. This high-quality lung screening detects lung abnormalities but with 90 percent less ionizing radiation than a conventional CT scan. If you have a high risk of lung cancer but no signs or symptoms, a LDCT screening could help you catch potentially cancerous spots at their earliest 和 most treatable stage.

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 和 77 (医疗保险 covers up to 77 years of age, but private insurance may cover up to 80 years of age),
  - Have a smoking history of 20 pack years (1 pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years),
  - Currently smoke or have quit smoking within the last 15 years

Initial Consultation 和 CT Scan
If you would like to undergo a LDCT lung screening, the first step is an appointment with your primary care provider. This appointment will be a time to discuss your age, smoking history 和 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 low-dose lung CT scan.

接下来会发生什么?

Your medical provider will call you soon after your screening to explain your results 和 discuss any additional necessary medical care. If the CT scan were to detect any potentially cancerous nodules, another screening may be needed after a few months to monitor your lungs’ conditions. 不管结果如何, annual screenings are recommended, as yearly low-dose CT scans have been shown to decrease mortality in patients who had increased risk due to smoking.

Is Screening Covered By My Insurance?
医疗保险 now covers the cost of low-dose CT screening for high risk patients. Many private health insurers provide coverage as well. Your physician will give you more specific details about eligibility 和 costs during your consultation.

记得…… A LDCT screening can detect lung cancer in its earliest stages, but it cannot prevent or cure disease. The only way to stop cancer before it starts is to stop smoking. If you think you may be ready to quit, talk to your primary care provider for guidance 和 helpful tips.

自费选择: Highpoint Health facilities offer LDCT scans at a reduced self-pay rate of $99 if you do not meet criteria or do not have health coverage. This flat rate includes the Radiologist reading. Typical criteria for self-payers include being between the ages of 50-80 和 smoking for 20 years or more. Even if you do not meet the typical criteria, your provider could still order a LDCT if they feel this screening would be beneficial for you.

澳门银河赌场官方网址

Highpoint Health – Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas
影像诊断服务
哈茨维尔大道555号
加勒廷，田纳西州37066
(615) 328-5501

Highpoint Health – Riverview with Ascension Saint Thomas
医学成像
医院道158号
迦太基，田纳西州37030
(615) 735-5164

Highpoint Health – Trousdale with Ascension Saint Thomas
安德鲁斯大道412号
哈茨维尔，田纳西州37074
(615) 374-3916