Lung Cancer Screening

Screening for Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is a highly treatable disease, if detected early. The best way to ensure early detection is through scheduling regular lung cancer screenings.  

At Bassett Healthcare Network, we recommend our eligible patients receive a screening once a year. The screening itself is simple and quick, with a low-dose CT scan of your chest. This service is offered at A.O. Fox Hospital, A.O. Fox Hospital - Tri-Town Campus, Bassett Medical Center, Cobleskill Regional Hospital, Little Falls Hospital, and O’Connor Hospital.

Lung Cancer Risk Factors

Your primary care provider can refer you for lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria set forth by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS*):

• You are between 50 and 80 years old**, and
• You currently smoke cigarettes, or have quit within the last 15 years, and

• You have a smoking history of at least 1 pack a day for 20 years.

*Guidelines for lung cancer screening can vary beyond CMS. Discuss with your primary care provider to determine your eligibility. If you are unsure if your insurance will cover these scans, please contact your insurance directly.
**Screening may not be covered by insurance if you're between 78 and 80 years old.
Some insurance plans still require a 30 pack year smoking history.

Lung Cancer Tests

A low-dose CT scan is a painless, safe procedure, with no medications or IVs required. During the exam, you’ll lie motionless on a table that glides into the scanner. The imaging machine will slowly rotate around your body, capturing detailed images of your lungs. The appointment usually take less than 30 minutes. A Lung Cancer Screening provider will offer counseling prior to the first scan and support the lung cancer screening process.

If lung cancer is detected / you are diagnosed with lung cancer, your multidisciplinary cancer team of pulmonologists, radiologists, and oncologists will determine which treatment plan will work best for you. An Oncology Nurse Navigator will work with you to answer any questions and find any cancer resources that can help you on your journey to recovery.

Learn More About Lung Cancer Screenings

Speak with your primary care provider to learn more about the benefits of lung cancer screening or call (607) 547-7953 for an appointment if you already have a referral.

To see if you qualify for lung cancer screening, contact your primary care provider at 1-800-BASSETT.

Bassett Healthcare Network offers lung cancer screening tests at sites throughout Central New York, including Cobleskill, Cooperstown, Delhi, Little Falls, Oneonta, and Sidney.