Lung screen | Novant Health

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Lung Screening

When it comes to protecting your health, Novant Health believes it pays to be relentless. Know your risk. Book your appointment now.

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Early testing saves lives

A history of smoking increases your risk of developing lung cancer. You can address your concerns through early lung screening by checking for cancer before you have symptoms. Early detection is key to increasing survival rates for patients with lung cancer.

Early Lung Cancer Screenings

When it comes to protecting your health, Novant Health believes it pays to be relentless. Visit with one of our primary care physicians today to see if you are eligible for a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening exam. The exam shows more detail than a standard chest x-ray to detect lung cancer early – often before symptoms emerge - greatly increasing the chances of successful treatment.

Age 50 to 80 years old

Someone with a history of smoking at least 20-pack years (equivalent to one pack per day for 20 years)

Still smoking or quit within the last 15 years

In relatively good health, with no symptoms of lung cancer

Your questions answered

Why is early detection important?

What is an LDCT scan?

LDCT is recommended as a screening test for adults who have a high risk of developing lung cancer based on their age and smoking history. The low-dose CT scan continuously rotates in a spiral motion and takes several 3-dimensional images. The pictures are used to create 3D views of tissues and organs. It’s also called low-dose computed tomography or a low-dose CT scan.

Will insurance cover the cost of my LDCT scan?

In most cases, yes. Insurance covers this screening if you qualify.

Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans only cover LDCT scans for people who meet the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) lung cancer screening criteria. These criteria are based on smoking exposure that places a person at high-risk of getting lung cancer. If you meet the criteria, your insurance may cover your LDCT scan at no cost to you.

Talk with your doctor and call your insurance company to find out if your plan will cover your scan. Your screening center may also have staff who can help answer insurance and cost questions.

What risk factors may increase a person’s chance of developing lung cancer?

Research has shown certain risk factors increase a person’s chance of developing lung cancer. They include:

Tobacco smoke
Radon
Asbestos and other carcinogens
Air pollution
Family or personal history of lung cancer
Radiation therapy
Age 65 and older
History of lung disease
Diet

Talk to your doctor about possible lung cancer risks and whether you should consider lung cancer screening.

What questions should I ask my healthcare team?

These questions about lung cancer screening and early detection are a good place to start.

Why should I get screened now for lung cancer if I have no symptoms?
Where do I go to get screened?
How do I prepare for a screening?
Is screening completely safe?
Does it hurt?
How long does it take to get the results?
Who will explain the results to me?
What is the next step if any abnormalities are found?
What are my treatment options if I have a cancerous nodule?