As Lung Cancer Awareness Month approaches this November, it’s the perfect time to spotlight a powerful tool in the early detection of lung cancer: CT Low Dose Lung Screenings (AKA CT Smart Lung screenings). Woodlawn is proud to offer these scans to support our community’s health.
Lung cancer remains the third most common cancer in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute. Early detection is the key to improving outcomes. That’s where screening comes in. These quick and non-invasive scans use a low dose of radiation to provide high-quality images of the lungs. These scans help to identify suspicious nodules or abnormalities long before symptoms appear.
At Woodlawn Health, this screening takes less than 10 minutes. After reviewing your smoking history, our technologist will guide you through a simple process: you’ll lie on your back while the CT table moves you into the scanner. You will be asked to hold your breath briefly during imaging, but after a few passes in and out of the machine, you will be all done. There is no preparation needed for this test.
Once completed, your scan will be read by a radiologist. Thanks to our new electronic medical record system, EPIC, you can view your radiology report directly from your smartphone or computer via the patient portal. With EPIC, you can also view your past and future appointments and even receive appointment reminders.
CT Smart Lung Screenings are recommended annually for eligible individuals. Eligibility is based on age, smoking history, and other health factors, so we encourage you to talk with your primary care provider to see if you qualify.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact your healthcare provider or call the Woodlawn Diagnostic Imaging Department.
