Does Medicare Cover Lung Cancer Screenings?

Lung cancer is the third most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States.

In 2015, the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services began covering annual lung cancer screenings with low-dose computed tomography for beneficiaries with a history of heavy smoking.

Low-dose computed tomography is a chest CT scan, which looks for small early-stage cancers. It has less radiation exposure compared to a standard chest CT scan.

During the screening, you lie on a table and an X-ray machine uses a low amount of radiation to take images of your lungs. The scan only takes a few minutes.

According to the American Lung Association, screening can help to reduce the lung cancer death rate by up to 20%

While a low-dose computed tomography has its advantages, it also comes with downsides.

For example, while this scan reduces radiation exposure, image quality is also reduced. This can lead to an increase in false-positive results, or results that suggest a person has lung cancer when no cancer is present.

That’s why Medicare also covers lung cancer screening counseling with a shared decision-making visit so you can discuss the benefits and harms of screening with your doctor.

Medicare coverage only includes a yearly preventive lung cancer screening for high-risk beneficiaries.

You must meet certain criteria to receive this Medicare-covered service.

Prior to your preventive screening, you’ll meet with your doctor for a counseling and shared decision-making visit.

If a lung cancer screening is right for you, your doctor can refer you to a high-quality screening facility.

According to Harvard Medical School, you should try to schedule your screening at a center of excellence in lung cancer.

If your follow-up confirms cancer, it’s important to have a team of radiologists, surgeons and other medical professionals experienced in treating the disease.

Lung cancer screenings are one of many preventive services covered by Medicare Part B.

Medicare Advantage plans, which are administered by private insurance companies that contract with the federal government, also cover lung cancer screenings for beneficiaries who qualify.

All coinsurance payments and deductibles are waived for yearly lung cancer screenings.

You will owe nothing for this service so long as you continue to meet eligibility requirements.