CT for National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP)
What to know
The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) is an Australian Federal Government health screening program for people who have no symptoms but are at high risk of developing lung cancer.
The program commenced on 1st July 2025 and Perth Radiological Clinic is proud to provide low dose computed tomography (CT) for eligible patients. The program is designed for the early detection of lung cancer to provide early and more effective treatment pathways.
To participate in the program, individuals will need a referral from their GP or healthcare provider to undergo screening at Perth Radiological Clinic.
To find out if you are eligible to join the NLCSP and have a CT chest scan, you must first be seen by your doctor.
Your doctor will ask a few questions about your age and smoking history to determine your eligibility.
To learn more about the NLCSP and your eligibility for screening, talk to your GP or visit:
If your GP or healthcare provider has referred you for lung screening, it may be because you’re at a higher risk of developing lung cancer due to your age and smoking history.
If you do qualify, your doctor will give you a referral for a lung screening chest CT scan – this simple scan can help detect any early signs of lung cancer, when it’s most treatable.
Does any of the following apply to you? If so please contact us as soon as possible.
- You suspect or know that you may be pregnant
Do you require an interpreter?
Is the patient non-english speaking? If so, we can arrange for an interpreter to be present during the appointment. Please let us know as soon as possible so we can make the relevant arrangements.
For your comfort, we recommend wearing separate top and bottom clothing, as this can make getting changed for your scan much easier.
There is no preparation required for a CT scan for lung screening.
An appointment is required for chest CT scans for lung screening.
If you are pregnant or suspect you might be, inform the staff.
A CT scan for lung screening will usually take 10 minutes. There are no injections required.
What to expect
To help get the clearest images possible during your scan, you may be asked to change into a gown and remove any jewellery, glasses, or metal items.
The CT scanner looks a bit like a large doughnut, with a bed that moves gently through the middle. You’ll lie on the bed and be asked to keep still while pictures are being taken of your lungs.
You will be given some simple breathing instructions to follow. The radiographer will talk to you and guide you through each step of the way while you are having your chest images taken.