Cost and Insurance
Many people can get a lung screening for little or no cost. Here is how it works with each kind of coverage.
Medicare
Medicare Part B covers one lung screening each year if you:
- Are 50 to 77 years old.
- Have no signs of lung cancer.
- Smoke now, or quit in the last 15 years.
- Have 20 pack-years or more.
- Have an order from your doctor.
Before your first scan, you need a visit with your doctor to talk about it. If your doctor accepts Medicare’s set payment, you pay nothing for the scan.
Medicare’s rules are a little different from the American Cancer Society guideline. Your doctor can help you sort it out.
Mississippi Medicaid
Mississippi Medicaid pays for lung cancer screening. Ask your doctor or community health worker about your plan.
Insurance through work or the Marketplace
Most private plans must cover lung screening at no cost to you if you meet the national guideline. Call the number on your insurance card and ask: “Is a low-dose CT lung screening covered for me?”
No insurance?
You still have options. Your community health worker can help you find low-cost or free screening near you.
The American Lung Association’s Lung HelpLine can also help you check if you qualify and find a place to go. Call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) and press 2. You can also send a question online.
If something is found
Insurance covers the screening scan itself. If you need more tests after your scan, those may cost more. Ask your doctor and your insurance before you go.
Have a question?
The American Lung Association’s Lung HelpLine can help. Call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) and press 2, send a question online, or chat live when chat is open.