A Nurse Practitioner's Experience in the Development and Implementation of a Lung Cancer Screening Program

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Oncology
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for lung cancer screening is now a covered service by major insurers.
• Despite coverage, healthcare providers face numerous barriers to implementing lung cancer screening programs.
• Eligible patients, particularly those at high risk, require accessible screening options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development of a nurse practitioner-led lung cancer screening program.
• To address the barriers hindering the provision of lung cancer screening.
• To ensure evidence-based access to care for high-risk populations.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a formal lung cancer screening program.
• Led by advanced practitioners, specifically nurse practitioners.
• Focus on overcoming identified provider and systemic barriers.

Main Results:

• The program was successfully developed and implemented.
• Addressed key barriers to lung cancer screening provision.
• Facilitated evidence-based access to care for a high-risk patient cohort.

Conclusions:

• Advanced practitioners, such as nurse practitioners, are well-suited to lead lung cancer screening programs.
• Nurse practitioner-led programs can effectively overcome implementation barriers.
• These programs enhance access to vital lung cancer screening for at-risk individuals.