Mobile Van Delivers Lung Cancer Screenings Across New York

A new mobile health screening van has launched in New York City, providing advanced lung cancer screenings using state-of-the-art imaging technology. This initiative, a collaboration among Weill Cornell Imaging at NewYork-Presbyterian, the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center at Columbia University, and the Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell Medicine, aims to increase accessibility and equity in lung cancer detection.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, with an estimated 227,000 cases projected for 2025. Despite the availability of low-dose CT scans that can identify the disease at its earliest stages, only 19% of eligible New Yorkers currently undergo recommended screenings. The mobile van addresses this significant gap by eliminating barriers related to geography and the complexities of the healthcare system that can prevent individuals from receiving necessary preventive care.

Innovative Approach to Screening

The mobile van, measuring 40 feet and weighing 44,000 pounds, is equipped with the same CT scanning technology found at Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University’s imaging facilities. It will travel throughout New York City’s five boroughs, offering screenings in convenient locations for patients. Alongside lung cancer screenings, the program will provide care navigation, tobacco cessation support, and seamless referrals to ensure comprehensive patient care.

Dr. Bradley Pua, program director and an associate professor of radiology at Weill Cornell Medicine, emphasized the initiative’s mission: “Our goal is to break down the systemic and logistical barriers that keep patients from receiving timely, high-quality care. We’re taking the scanner to the streets—directly to the people who need it most.”

Dr. A. Phoenix Matthews, a professor at Columbia University School of Nursing and co-director of the Community Outreach and Engagement Core at the Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, reinforced the commitment to tackling lung cancer in local communities: “Addressing the lung cancer burden in our communities is a top priority for both our cancer centers. We are dedicated to improving the health of all New York City residents by providing access to high-quality screening, especially in resource-limited areas.”

Launch and Eligibility Details

The official launch of the mobile van is set for October 17, 2023, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Weill Cornell Medicine. The van will be stationed near community-based Federally Qualified Health Centers and in priority neighborhoods identified through research on lung cancer incidence, mortality, and smoking rates.

To qualify for low-dose CT (LDCT) screening, individuals must meet specific criteria: they should be aged 50-80 (50-77 for Medicare), be current or former smokers (having quit within the last 15 years), and have at least 20 pack-years of smoking history. A pack-year is defined as smoking one pack of cigarettes daily for a year. Importantly, candidates should not currently exhibit symptoms of lung cancer.

Screenings and consultations are typically fully covered by commercial insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid, ensuring no out-of-pocket costs for patients. Those interested in scheduling a telehealth consultation can call 646-962-LUNG (5864) or visit https://wcinyp.org/patients/radiology-consultation-services/lung-cancer-screening/mobile-ct-unit for more information and upcoming mobile screening locations.

This initiative represents a significant step forward in enhancing lung cancer prevention efforts in New York, providing crucial services to those who need them most.