By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

Shelby Baptist Medical Center’s Tower Imaging, one of the hospital’s two diagnostic imaging centers, has been designated as a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology.

“This designation recognizes the facility’s commitment to practicing safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer,” read a SBMC press release.

To receive the distinction, facilities must be accredited by the ACR in low-dose computed tomography in the chest module, must undergo rigorous assessment of lung cancer screening protocols and infrastructure and must attain a diligent procedure for follow-up patient care, such as treatment counseling and smoking cessation programs.

“Low-dose CT scans and appropriate follow-up care can significantly reduce deaths associated with lung cancer, which takes the lives of more people each year than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined,” said Dr. Ben McDaniel, a radiologist at SBMC. “Our goal is to provide top-quality patient care and reduce lung cancer deaths, and this can only be achieved by remaining patient-centered in everything we do. It is an honor to receive this accreditation from ACR, as it is proof of our commitment to that goal.”

In February, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced scans for some lung cancer patients will be covered for eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Candidates between the ages of 55 and 77 with a tobacco-smoking history of at least 30 pack-years (one pack per day for 30 plus years) are eligible to receive scans as a benefit. Current smokers or patients who have quit smoking within the last 15 years are also eligible.

“The screenings are painless, and the actual scan time only lasts around 10 seconds. In most cases the screening is completely covered by the patient’s insurance with no out-of-pocket expense for the patient,” McDaniel said. “The affordability of the testing combined with our dedicated team, first-floor access and free parking ensures that patients have an optimal experience.”