National Lung Cancer Screening Program

Step 1: See a healthcare provider (GP, nurse practitioner or medical specialist)

During your appointment  a healthcare provider (GP, nurse practitioner or medical specialist)  will talk with you and determine your eligibility. They will also discuss   if lung cancer screening is right for you.  

If screening is right for you, the healthcare provider will guide you through the process. They will give you  a program request form and enrol you in the National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR).   

Important: Some healthcare providers bulk bill, others charge their usual fees. This appointment follows the clinic’s normal billing. You can call ahead to check any costs. You can also ask a healthcare provider where lung cancer screening is offered in your area. 

Step 2: Before the low-dose CT scan

Book the free scan.  

Ahead of your scan you will need to remove any jewellery. 

If you require assistance on the day, such as changing into a gown or getting onto the scan table, please let the radiology clinic know when booking or ahead of your appointment.  

Important: Make sure you take your request form as it contains important information for the radiologist.

Step 3: Attending the low-dose CT scan

You will be asked to lie flat on your back with your arms raised above your head and to hold your breath for a few seconds. The scan itself takes around 10 seconds, and your entire appointment will be completed within 15 minutes.  

You will not get your results on the day.

Step 4: After the scan

A radiologist will review your scan images to check for any small lumps called nodules. They will send your results to your healthcare provider.  

You may also receive a notification (text message or letter) from the NCSR, letting you know what to do next.

Step 5: Getting your results

f your scan is clear, you’ll be invited to come back in 2 years for your next one. If something is found, a healthcare provider will explain what to do next. This might include visiting a healthcare provider, having another scan or seeing a specialist.

Important: Sometimes scans show things that need checking but aren’t cancer. 

Program Resources

To learn more about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program, the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website has a variety of resources on eligibility, low-dose CT scans, understanding your results and answers to frequently asked questions.  

You will also find translated fact sheets and brochures available in 21 different languages. 

Visit the NACCHO website to access resources and learn more about the National Lung Cancer Screening Program for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities.