MARRERO, LA — West Jefferson Medical Center (WJMC) has been designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology (ACR). The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is a voluntary program that recognizes facilities that have committed to practice safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer.
WJMC is the only hospital on the Westbank to be designated.
"Lung cancer is typically diagnosed when it’s very advanced and treatment options are often limited," said Nancy R. Cassagne, CEO of West Jefferson. "The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is a testament to our hospital's commitment to early detection and aggressive treatment of lung cancer. We are proud of our radiology team and our physicians for using the latest technology possible to take care of our patients."
In order to receive this elite distinction, facilities must be accredited by the ACR in computed tomography (CT) in the chest module, as well as undergo a rigorous assessment of its lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure. Also required are procedures in place for follow-up patient care, such as counseling and smoking cessation programs.
Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans, and appropriate follow-up care, significantly reduces lung cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. Lung cancer is one of the nation’s leading cancer killers – taking the lives of more people each year than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined.
WJMC offers Low-Dose Lung CT Screening, and it’s covered by Medicare and most private insurances. A physician’s order and authorization is required for the screening to be performed.
The screening is open to those who meet the following criteria:
• A current or former smoker (former smokers quit within the last 15 years)
• Age 55 to 80
• No Symptoms for lung cancer (no shortness of breath, no unusual or persistent chest/back pain, no coughing up blood)
WJMC has two referral options:
• Patients may contact the hospital's Oncology Nurse Navigator, Stephanie Aguilar, RN, 504-349-2436, to determine if they are eligible.
• Physicians may refer their patients directly for the screening.
WJMC is recognized as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and advancing research by empowering those living with and at risk for lung cancer. They are the region’s only Lung Cancer Screening Center of Excellence and #1 in Lung Cancer Care in New Orleans.
