Atlantic Health System provides a lung cancer screening program that is covered by Medicare and other commercial insurance companies.* A low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) exam is part of our lung cancer screening. Research has shown that - unlike chest X-rays - yearly LDCT scans to screen people at high risk of lung cancer can save lives.
Federico Cerrone, MD, and a screening patient explain the importance of annual lung cancer screening and early detection.
Lung Cancer Screening Qualifications
Qualifications to participate in our lung cancer screening program include those who:
- are between the ages of 50 and 77
- are current smokers or have quit within the last 15 years
- have a minimum a 20-pack year or greater history of cigarette smoking (packs years = packs per day/years smoking)
- are asymptomatic (no signs and symptoms of lung cancer)
- have received an order for lung cancer screening with LDCT
Lung Cancer Screening Results
- All participants will receive a letter explaining the results and interpretation of the LDCT and recommendations for follow-up care, if needed.
- Referring physicians will receive a formal interpretation.
- Creating a MyChart account will provide the quickest access to view results. Create a MyChart account >
- All participants will be entered into Atlantic Health System’s lung screening database, so they can receive annual reminders for follow-up care and notifications of events and programs offered by us.
Lung Cancer Screening Appointments
A prescription or order from your physician is required for the LDCT. We offer multiple screening locations for your convenience.
*Patients should call their insurance company first to verify coverage.
MyChart Users
Users with a prescription from their primary care physician can easily schedule their screening in MyChart. A scheduling prompt will appear on your menu under "Preventive Care."
Is a Screening Right for You?
To see if you qualify for a screening, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor.
Moments That Matter: Gregory's Story
Gregory E. smoked cigarettes for four decades, which is why - three years ago - at the recommendation of his pulmonologist, Federico Cerrone, MD, he became one of the first patients to take part in Atlantic Health System Lung Cancer Screening Program for people at high risk for developing lung cancer.
“Lung cancer can be cured when it’s caught early. Annual screenings save lives,” said Dr. Cerrone, the program’s medical director. Screening is crucial because “most people with lung cancer aren’t symptomatic until it has spread.”
