Lung cancer screenings
Medicare Coverage Information
Overview
Medicare covers annual lung cancer screenings for eligible high-risk individuals using low-dose CT scans. These screenings help detect lung cancer early when it's most treatable, potentially saving lives through preventive care.
- Annual low-dose CT scan for lung cancer screening
- Screening must be ordered by a qualified healthcare provider
- No cost-sharing for eligible beneficiaries who meet specific risk criteria
- Screening is covered for individuals with a significant smoking history
- Requires a comprehensive counseling and shared decision-making visit
- Medicare Part B beneficiaries
- Ages 50-77 years old
- Current smokers or those who quit within past 15 years
- Have a smoking history of at least 20 pack-years
- No existing lung cancer symptoms
- No out-of-pocket cost for eligible beneficiaries
- Screening is covered 100% when performed by Medicare-approved providers
- Requires meeting specific risk assessment criteria
- Only covered for individuals aged 50-77 years old
- Beneficiary must be asymptomatic (no signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
- Requires current or former heavy smoker status
- Must have a counseling and shared decision-making visit before screening
- Consult with your primary care physician about lung cancer screening eligibility
- Schedule a counseling visit to discuss screening recommendations
- Obtain a referral from a healthcare provider for low-dose CT scan
- Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE for specific coverage questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025
Quick Information
- Provider
- Medicare
- Last Updated
- 6/15/2025
- Topics
- Medicare lung cancer screeninglung cancer screening coverageMedicare preventive serviceslung cancer early detectionMedicare screening guidelines
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