Lung Cancer Screening Program

Early Diagnosis of Lung Cancer Can Save Your Life

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in America - but regular screenings can detect it early when it's more likely to be cured. Unfortunately, when signs and symptoms occur, lung cancer is usually too advanced for curative treatment. However, studies show annual screenings help reduce your risk of dying from lung cancer.

What is Lung Cancer Screening?

Screenings test for lung cancer before symptoms are present. An imaging exam called computed tomography (CT), a type of x-ray that creates detailed pictures of your lungs, is the only recommended test for lung cancer screenings.

Who is Eligible for Lung Cancer Screenings?

  • Those ages 50 to 77 years old
  • Current cigarette smokers or smokers who have quit within the past 15 years
  • Those who smoke, or used to smoke, an average of more than one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years
  • Those showing no symptoms of lung cancer, including:
    • Coughing up blood or an unexplained, persistent cough
    • Unexplained weight loss of more than 15 pounds in the last 12 months
    • Unexplained voice hoarseness
    • Chest pain or discomfort

How the Program Works

  1. CT lung cancer screenings require a referral from your doctor.
  2. Talk to your doctor about your risk for lung cancer and if you are eligible. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of annual screenings and arrange for a scheduled appointment if you agree this is the right decision for you.
  3. Following your CT lung cancer screening exam, you and your doctor will receive results with recommended next steps. Results are also posted in your patient portal.
  4. Screenings are recommended annually as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements for preventative health care. Yearly screenings are needed to provide early detection for patients who are at high risk for lung cancer due to smoking cigarettes.
  5. Your results may require additional tests, biopsies or surgeries if recommended.

How to Make an Appointment

Talk to your health care provider about a screening. An order is required. Call 417-730-5864 if you have questions.

Most insurance companies, including traditional Medicare and Medicaid, will cover the cost of this screening exam for those who meet eligibility requirements. Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage and any patient responsibility for the charges. If you are a current smoker and would like to receive support in quitting, we also encourage you to participate in our smoking cessation program.

Centers of Excellence

When you're with us, you're with a provider you can trust. We're an American College of Radiology Designated Lung Cancer Screening Center. We've also been named to the Screening Centers of Excellence centers by the GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer.