Steps to access the National Lung Cancer Screening Program

Step 1: See your healthcare provider

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

If screening is right for you, the healthcare provider 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 your 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

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

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