Lung Cancer Screening

When it comes to lung cancer, early detection is important. However, because there are often no symptoms associated with lung cancer, there is nothing to warn us that something is wrong – except for lung cancer screenings.

Middlesex Health offers lung cancer screenings, and these screenings can help doctors find lung cancer in its early stages. The full screening process can take about 30 minutes, and the benefits are invaluable.

Insurance companies currently allow lung cancer screenings for anyone between the ages of 55 and 77 who currently smoke, or who quit smoking within the last 15 years.

“I strongly encourage anyone who falls in this high-risk group to speak to their primary care physician regarding lung cancer screenings,” says Dr. Raymond Schoonmaker, a pulmonologist with the Hospital’s Total Lung Care Center.

Private insurance companies cover lung cancer screenings for high-risk individuals. Some companies may require prior authorization. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services also cover the screenings.

To get a lung cancer screening, you must have a referral from your health care provider. If your doctor decides a screening is appropriate, your information will be sent to Middlesex Health's radiology central scheduling office and an appointment will be made.

You do not need to do anything special to prepare for a lung screening. The screening includes a low-dose lung scan, often referred to as a “CAT” scan, which shows detailed pictures of the chest. This allows medical professionals to detect very small nodules or swellings in the lungs.

Once the lung scan is taken, a board-certified radiologist will review it. If something abnormal is found, your doctor will contact you.

For more information about lung cancer screenings, contact 860-358-2066.