Low Dose Lung Scan
Why should I consider a low dose Lung Scan at Medical Imaging of Fredericksburg?
If detected and treated in the earliest stage, lung cancer survival may be as high as 70 percent. Unfortunately, lung cancer can grow undetected for years before symptoms are present. However, our Lung Scan can identify lung cancer six times earlier than a conventional chest x-ray.
Medical Imaging of Fredericksburg has several convenient locations throughout the area, with extended hours on nights and weekends. For convenient locations and directions, please click here.
How does the low does Lung Scan work?
Our CT scanner takes hundreds of images of your chest in a matter of seconds. Multiple images are obtained during one breath-hold. The scan takes about 10 minutes to complete. Immediately after the scan, you will receive a consult with a radiologist who will read and interpret your Lung Scan images. You and your physician will receive a detailed report of the findings and recommended action.
Who should consider a low does Lung Scan?
• Those 55 to 75 years of age
• Have a 30 pack-year smoking history (pack-years = packs per day x years smoked)
• Have been exposed to toxic fumes or asbestos, people with a family history of lung disease
• Are experiencing symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing or chest pain
• No prior cancer diagnosis in the past 5 years (other than basal cell skin cancer)
• No treated pneumonia in the past three months.
Is the low dose Lung Scan safe?
Patients often worry about the amount of radiation they will receive, but the test is safe. The radiation dose for this scan is equivalent to living a year in Denver and being exposed to the natural background radiation found there.
How much does a low dose Lung Scan cost?
The cost is $325 and it is not covered by insurance. No physician referral is necessary.
Who do I contact about a low dose Lung Scan?
To find out if a low dose Lung Scan is right for you, call the VA HealthScan Coordinator at 540.741.7644 to schedule an appointment.
Medical Imaging of Fredericksburg is the region's comprehensive imaging and radiological diagnostic provider. This service, jointly owned by Mary Washington Healthcare and Radiologic Associates of Fredericksburg, is dedicated to providing the safest and most advanced imaging and diagnostic studies for our patients. For convenient locations and directions, please click here.
VA HealthScan is the screenings program at Medical Imaging of Fredericksburg and offers preventative screening for colorectal cancers, heart disease and lung cancer.
