Medina Memorial joining lung cancer screening day on Nov. 14

Provided photo: Medina Memorial Hospital will participate in National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Nov. 14. Here, Erica Chutko, director of imaging, does a CT scan of a patient’s lungs.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced that Medina Memorial Hospital will once again participate in National Lung Cancer Screening Day on Nov. 14.

The nationwide initiative, held during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, aims to increase awareness of the importance of early detection and expand access to potentially lifesaving lung cancer screenings, according to information provided by Scott Robinson, director of marketing for OCH.

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. While the disease often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages, screening with low-dose computed tomography can help detect lung cancer before symptoms appear, when treatment is more likely to be successful. Despite the benefits of early detection, many individuals who qualify for screening have never been screened.

“Early detection can make a tremendous difference in the treatment and outcomes of lung cancer,” Robinson said. “By participating in National Lung Cancer Screening Day, we’re helping remove barriers to preventive care and encouraging members of our community to take an important step toward protecting their health.”

On Nov. 14, Medina Memorial Hospital will offer low-dose CT lung cancer screenings to eligible patients. The screening is quick, painless and non-invasive, using a low dose of radiation to create detailed images of the lungs. The test can identify abnormalities that may require further evaluation, often before symptoms develop.

Individuals may qualify for annual low-dose CT lung cancer screening if they meet the following criteria:

• Are between 50 and 80 years old.
• Have a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years (equivalent to smoking one pack per day for 20 years or two packs per day for 10 years).
• Currently smoke or have quit smoking within the past 15 years.
• Have no signs of symptoms of lung cancer.
• Have a physician’s order for the screening.
• Obtain prior authorization if required by their insurance provider.

Insurance coverage requirements may vary, including different age eligibility criteria for Medicare beneficiaries. Patients are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider to determine whether lung cancer screening is appropriate for them.

In taking the first step toward early detection, Orleans Community Health encourages community members who meet the screening criteria to speak with their primary care provider and consider scheduling a screening. Individuals with a history of smoking who have never undergone lung cancer screening are especially encouraged to learn more about their eligibility.

Individuals should call Medina Memorial Hospital at (585) 798-8054 to learn more about eligibility or to schedule a lung cancer screening.