At NYC Health + Hospitals, our system-wide Lung Cancer Screening Program aims to screen all eligible individuals for lung cancer regardless of gender, race/ethnicity, language spoken, and ability to pay. All participants receive care specific to their needs including tobacco cessation services and treatment.
Common Questions
What is screening?
Screening checks to see if there is disease in people who do not have symptoms.
Why screen for lung cancer?
Early stage lung cancer may have no symptoms. Often, by the time you don’t feel well, the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body.
Lung cancer screening can find lung cancer before you have symptoms when it can be easier to treat and may be cured.
What is lung cancer screening?
Lung Cancer Screening is an easy test using a low-dose CT scan. There is no contrast, so no need to get an IV or drink anything.
Is there any special prep for this test?
No. All you need to do is show up for your appointment. There are no restrictions. You can eat, drink and take any medicines you need.
How long does it take for the test?
The test is very quick—about five minutes.
How much will it cost?
Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance pays for a lung cancer screening.
There is NO out of pocket cost for a lung cancer screening if you are eligible.
Should I Get Screened?
Are you 50 to 80 years old?
And
Do you smoke now?
Or
Do you have a history of smoking? If you quit, was it in the last 15 years?
If you answer yes to these questions, ask your doctor about a low-dose CT scan.
If you answered no to any of these questions and have concerns or questions about your health, talk to your doctor.
If you do not have a primary care doctor, call 1-844-NYC-4NYC for information on getting an appointment.