A lung cancer diagnosis can be frightening and confusing, with many tests, treatments, physician visits and therapies to schedule and remember. In the Sutter Health network, our dedicated team of lung cancer experts guides you through the process with compassion. Here are some of the support services we offer to help.
Lung Cancer Screening
Early stage lung cancers have an up to 60 percent cure rate, but most are caught late, making this disease the No. 1 cause of death by cancer. If you are 55 or older and a long-time smoker or former smoker, you may be eligible for a lung cancer screening. Twenty locations throughout the Sutter Health network offer screenings using a special CT scan that has less than half the typical radiation exposure. Many insurance companies cover the cost.
Lung Nodule Program
Lung nodules detected on a screening or diagnostic CT scan aren’t usually cancerous, but it’s important to have them monitored. We offer a focused Lung Nodule Program dedicated to swiftly analyzing lung nodules and creating a personalized plan for follow-up based on your risk factors and family history.
Nurse Navigators
Our compassionate and knowledgeable oncology certified nurse (OCN®) navigators can guide you through every step of the cancer journey, from screening and diagnosis to treatment and survivorship. They also provide emotional support, answer financial and insurance questions and connect you with support resources.
Integrative Care
For lung cancer patients with lung conditions related to smoking or environmental factors, our team of pulmonologists, nurses, respiratory and physical therapists, and dieticians will help you improve your quality of life and reduce the symptoms related to your lung disease.