Overview

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is a screening program for people who may be at higher risk of lung cancer. It uses a low-dose computed tomography scan (low-dose CT scan) to look for signs of lung cancer before any symptoms appear.

The program aims to detect lung cancer early, when treatment is most effective and will save lives. 

Eligible people can access the scan for free through Medicare. A healthcare provider (GP, nurse practitioner or medical specialist) will provide eligible people with a form to book the free scan.  

Eligibility

• People between 50 and 70 years old and
• Show no signs or symptoms of lung cancer (for example, unexplained persistent cough, coughing up blood, shortness of breath for no reason) and
• Currently smoke tobacco cigarettes or have quit in the past 10 years and
• Have a smoking history of 30 pack years (for example, a pack a day for 30 years, or 2 packs a day for 15 years)

Want to understand eligibility to join the program?

Call the Lung Cancer Screening Helpline to speak with a nurse, they can help calculate pack-years and answer other questions about the program. Alternatively, speak to a healthcare provider (GP, nurse practitioner or medical specialist) about the program.

If any of these symptoms are present, it’s important to book an appointment with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to check what might be causing them:  

• A cough that doesn’t go away
• Coughing up blood
• Being short of breath for no reason
• Getting very tired or losing weight
• Ache or pain when you breathe or cough
• Chest or shoulder pain that does not go away.

To learn more about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, eligibility, how to get a scan, or understanding results, call the Helpline or visit the National Lung Cancer Screening Program website.  

Lung Cancer Screening Helpline

Our Lung Cancer Screening Helpline is a free service for individuals and healthcare professionals seeking information about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program.   

Our trained nurses are available to:

• Answer questions about eligibility, the screening process, and results
• Talk through any concerns about the program
• Connect with additional support services if needed

Call 1800 654 301 (option 2) or email [email protected]