Lung Cancer Screening and Lung Nodule Clinic
Heart of Melbourne Radiology proudly supports The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCS), offering state-of-the-art Low-Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) scans to aid in the early detection of lung cancer.
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer- related deaths in Australia. The NLCS is designed to detect lung cancer at an early stage when it is more treatable, significantly improving patient outcomes. LDCT scans provide a highly accurate, non-invasive method to identify
abnormalities, ensuring timely intervention and
management.
The National Lung Cancer Surveillance Program
The National Lung Cancer Surveillance Program aims to monitor high-risk individuals, ensuring early detection and timely intervention. This initiative focuses on identifying lung cancer at its earliest stages, reducing mortality rates through regular screening and follow-up. Key objectives include:
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Risk Assessment: Identifying individuals at high risk due to smoking history, age, and other contributing factors.
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Regular Monitoring: Ensuring periodic LDCT scans for continuous monitoring of lung health.
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Data Collection & Research: Utilizing findings to improve lung cancer detection and treatment strategies.
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Integrated Patient Care: Coordinating with primary care providers and specialists for a seamless healthcare experience.
Through structured surveillance protocols, at-risk patients receive continued evaluation, reducing the incidence of advanced-stage lung cancer and improving survival rates.
Eligibility for the Program
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program is available to individuals who meet the following eligibility criteria:
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Aged between 50-70 years
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Current or former smokers with a significant smoking history (e.g., 20 pack-years or more)
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No prior history of lung cancer
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Asymptomatic individuals (those without signs or symptoms of lung cancer)
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High-risk occupational exposure (e.g., exposure to asbestos, silica, or other lung carcinogens)
If a patient meets these criteria, they are encouraged to undergo LDCT screening for early lung cancer detection and improved treatment outcomes.
Lung Nodule Clinic
At Heart of Melbourne, we provide a seamless, patient-centred approach to lung cancer care. From early detection to diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up, our Multidisciplinary Team of specialists ensures world-class, evidence-based care under one roof. Our commitment to innovative
technology, precision medicine, and holistic treatment plans sets us apart as a premier one-stop destination for comprehensive lung cancer care.
Our expert Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) consists of:
General Physician – First contact for the patient. Our general physician plays a crucial coordinating and continuity-of-care role, especially at the early detection, referral, and follow-upstages.
Respiratory Physician – Specialising in lung disease diagnosis and management, ensuring patients receive appropriate diagnostic testing, bronchoscopy procedures, and follow-up care. They collaborate with the MDT to determine the best course of action for each patient.
Cardio-thoracic Surgeon – Expertise in the latest robotic and minimally invasive surgery techniques, offering precise surgical interventions with minimal recovery time. They work closely with the team to ensure seamless surgical planning and post-operative care.
Medical Oncologist – Develops personalised cancer treatment plans, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies for
lung cancer patients. They ensure that treatments are tailored to each patient’s cancer type and overall health condition.
Radiologist – Interprets LDCT scans with precision, ensuring accurate detection of lung abnormalities and guiding further medical action. Their expertise plays a crucial role in early diagnosis and ongoing monitoring
of disease progression.
Cardiologist – Assesses and manages any underlying cardiac conditions that may impact lung cancer treatment. Since lung cancer patients often have
concurrent cardiovascular risks, their role is vital in maintaining a holistic approach to care.
Our MDT Approach ensures that every patient benefits from a collaborative treatment plan, integrating expertise across specializations for seamless diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Through regular case discussions and joint decision-making, our specialists strive to provide the most effective and compassionate care possible.
A One-Stop Destination for
Comprehensive Lung Cancer Care
By referring your patients to HOM Radiology and Heart of Melbourne, with locations strategically positioned across Melbourne, you ensure they receive the highest standard of care in a supportive and collaborative environment.
Together, we can improve lung cancer outcomes through early detection and expert management.
No out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients
Why General Practitioners (GPs) Should Be Vigilant
GPs play a critical role in identifying at-risk individuals and referring them for LDCT scans.
Early detection saves lives, and by actively participating in the NLCS, GPs can:
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Improve patient outcomes through early detection and timely intervention.
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Reduce the burden of advanced lung cancer cases by detecting cancer before symptoms appear.
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Strengthen patient trust by demonstrating proactive, evidence-based care.
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Seamlessly integrate with our multidisciplinary team to ensure optimal patient management.
