Mon Valley receives screening designation
Monongahela Valley Hospital has been designated a Lung Cancer Screening Center by the American College of Radiology.
The designation is a voluntary program that recognizes facilities that have committed to practice safe, effective diagnostic care for individuals at the highest risk for lung cancer.
To receive the distinction, facilities must be accredited by the ACR in computed tomography in the chest module, as well as undergo an assessment of their lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure and have procedures in place for follow-up patient care, such as counseling and smoking cessation programs.
Lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography scans and appropriate follow-up care significantly reduce lung cancer deaths.
In December 2013, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended screening of adults ages 55 to 80 who have a 30-year, pack-a-day smoking history and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.