Lung Cancer Screening: Implementation of and Barriers to a Nurse Practitioner-Led Program

Lung cancer accounts for more American deaths annually than any other cancer, and the survival rate is low among those diagnosed with advanced-stage disease. Screening with low-dose computed tomography (CT) can help to reduce mortality. CT screening for lung cancer should be performed in the context of a comprehensive screening program, rather than as a single isolated test. The addition of the nurse practitioner role is instrumental in creating a lung cancer screening program that may increase patient satisfaction and that meets regulatory criteria.