Lung Cancer Screening Program in Sonora
Annual screenings for eligible patients
The National Cancer Institute has confirmed that screening those at high risk for lung cancer with an annual low-dose CT scan saves lives.
If you have Medicare Part B medical insurance, you might be eligible for annual lung cancer screening.
This is a covered preventive service benefit for those who:
- Are age 55 to 77
- Are asymptomatic (no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
- Currently smoke or have quit within the last 15 years
- Have a tobacco smoking history of at least 30 "pack years" (an average of one pack a day for 30 years)
- Have a written order from their physician or provider
Prior to your first screening, you must see your primary care provider to discuss:
- The potential risks and benefits of CT lung screening
- The importance of adhering to the annual screening, the impact of other conditions, and your ability and/or willingness to undergo diagnosis and treatment
- The importance of smoking cessation or remaining smoke-free
For more information about the lung cancer screening program, talk to your doctor or call (209) 536-3437.
Other lung health resources
On top of lung cancer screenings, Adventist Health Sonora proudly offers a wide variety of other helpful resources to encourage healthy habits and screen for lung conditions and cancer.
- Freedom From Smoking: Our pulmonary rehabilitation department offers the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking course a few times throughout the year. This eight-week course provides a supportive group environment where adults work through the quitting process together with guidance from a respiratory therapist. The class is covered by most private insurance and Medicare. For those without insurance or whose insurance does not cover the class, scholarships and discounts are available. For more information, please call (209) 536-3726
- Pulmonology clinic: Our pulmonology clinic is staffed by Dr. Artin Mahmoudi, a board-certified pulmonologist/intensivist who has many years of experience treating respiratory conditions and caring for critically ill patients. As a specialist in pulmonary medicine, Dr. Mahmoudi treats all disorders related to the lungs and respiratory system. Call (209) 536-3738 to schedule an appointment.
- Oxygen & Medical Supply: Sonora Oxygen and Medical Supply offers oxygen equipment and respiratory services with technicians available to provide home service and delivery seven days per week. Delivery areas include Tuolumne, Calaveras, Mariposa and Stanislaus counties. Billing specialists take care of all required insurance paperwork and bill your insurance for you. Visit Oxygen & Medical Supplyfor more information or call (209) 536-3760.
- Pulmonary rehabilitation: Pulmonary rehabilitation can help those with chronic pulmonary disease improve quality of life by building strength and stamina through a tailored exercise and education program. Visit pulmonary rehabilitation for more information or call (209) 536-3726.
- Cardiopulmonary services: Our cardiopulmonary department offers a range of diagnostic tests and treatments including respiratory assessments and pulmonary function tests. Call (209) 536-3430 for more information.