CT Lung Screening FAQ

What is a CT Lung Screening?

The CT Lung Screening is an exam that attempts to detect lung cancer in its earliest stage and when it is most treatable. It consists of a low dose, non-contrasted helical CT that uses X-rays to scan the entire chest in about five to ten seconds during a single breath hold.

Who should get a CT Lung Screening?

This exam is for patients that are at high risk for lung cancer. Typically, that includes former or current smokers ages 55-74 who have smoked the equivalent of one pack of cigarettes a day for 30 years or more.

Why screen for lung cancer?

Lung cancer is the number one cancer killer in America claiming more lives than colorectal, breast, pancreatic and prostate cancer combined. Without early detection screening, over 95% of lung cancer patients eventually die from their lung cancer, usually within a few years of when they are diagnosed. Annual screening with CT scans can find lung cancers in their earliest stage, when up to 90% can be cured.

Suspicious nodules that may indicate lung cancer can be seen in a CT scan of the lung (above),
but not in an X-ray (below).

Is a CT Lung Screening covered by insurance?

Unless an illness is already suspected, few insurers will pay for the screening. Patients wishing to get the CT Lung Screening should expect to pay $300 out of pocket at the time of service. If cancer is detected, the follow-up treatment should then be covered by their insurance. 

For more information regarding the CT screening for lung cancer, you can call toll free: 1-877-243-0563.