Lung Cancer

The National Cancer Institute confirmed that screening individuals at high risk for lung cancer with a yearly low-dose CT scan saves lives.

If you have Medicare Part B, you may be eligible for yearly lung screening. Most insurance plans now help pay for recommended yearly lung screening.

This is a covered preventive service benefit for those who:

• Are 50 to 80 years old
• Are asymptomatic (no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
• Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
• Have a tobacco smoking history of at least 20 "pack years" (an average of one pack a day for 20 years)
• Have a written or electronic order for a low-dose CT & have also had a shared decision-making appointment with their primary care provider.

Prior to your first screening, you must have a shared decision-making appointment with your primary care provider to discuss:

• Potential risks, benefits and limits of low-dose CT lung screening
• Importance of yearly lung screening
• Ability and/or willingness to undergo diagnostic and curative treatment
• Importance of smoking cessation or remaining smoke-free

For more information about lung screening, please talk to your primary care provider or call (530) 451-4850.

Other lung health resources

In addition to screening, Adventist Health and Rideout offers other helpful resources to help care for our community.

• Lung Nodule Program: The Lung Nodule Program is staffed by Dr. Davinder Dhillon, a board-certified pulmonologist/intensivist who has many years of experience treating respiratory conditions and caring for critically ill patients. The program focuses on the early detection and rapid treatment of lung cancer. Call (530) 749-4429 to learn how to be referred to the program.

• Freedom From Smoking: Our pulmonary rehabilitation department offers the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking Program. This eight-week course provides a supportive group environment where adults work through the quitting process together with guidance from a respiratory therapist. The classes are offered free of charge as a community service of Adventist Health and Rideout. Attendance is required for insurance approval of nicotine patches. For more information, please call (530) 741-3840.

• Primary Care Provider Services: Physicians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants are ready to serve you and your family with expert care and comprehensive services. Call (530) 844-5655 or (530) 671-2020 or visit Yuba-Sutter primary care providers | Adventist Health and Rideout to schedule an appointment.

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