WILMINGTON, NC – New Hanover Regional Medical Center has been designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is a voluntary program that recognizes facilities committed to practicing safe and effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer.
In order to receive this distinction, facilities must be accredited by the ACR in computed tomography (CT), as well as undergo a rigorous assessment of its lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure. Facilities are also required to have procedures in place for follow-up patient care, such as counseling and smoking cessation programs.
Lung cancer screenings are important since symptoms of lung cancer aren’t noticeable until the disease has progressed to an advanced state. Screenings are vital to detect cancer in the early stages when it is most treatable.
A physician referral is required for screening, which can be ordered by a primary care physician and conducted at eight convenient NHRMC lung screening clinic locations in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties.
Those between 55 and 77 years of age who currently smoke or quit within the last 15 years should take action by talking with their primary care physician to determine if they are a candidate for screening. Medicare provides coverage for patients who meet the criteria and are considered high risk. Some insurance companies pay for lung screenings and should be contacted for details.
Patients diagnosed with lung cancer through a screening may be referred to the NHRMC Lung Program at the NHRMC Zimmer Cancer Center, which provides newly diagnosed patients access to a multi-disciplinary team that expedites treatment.
For more information on lung cancer screenings, visit www.nhrmc.org/lung-screening.