Lung Cancer Screening – Early Detection Saves Lives

Lung Cancer Screening now available at Imaging Associates

From July 2025, Australians at high risk of lung cancer will be able to access free lung cancer screening through the National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP). This important initiative gives patients and their doctors the opportunity to detect lung cancer early -when it is most treatable, using a low-dose CT scan.

Imaging Associates is proud to support this life-saving program and is now offering fully bulk-billed lung cancer screening scans at all of our clinics across our network.

Why Lung Cancer Screening Matters

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in Australia, responsible for more deaths than breast and prostate cancers combined. Sadly, over 40% of lung cancer diagnoses occur at Stage IV, when curative treatment is often no longer an option. Only one in four people survive five years beyond diagnosis.

International research has shown that screening with a low-dose CT scan can detect up to 70% of lung cancers at an early stage, often before symptoms appear. Early detection leads to better outcomes, more treatment options, and a significantly higher chance of survival.

Who Is Eligible for Free Screening?

You may be eligible for the National Lung Cancer Screening Program if you:

• Are aged 50 to 70 years
• Have no current symptoms of lung cancer (e.g. unexplained cough, coughing up blood, breathlessness)
• Currently smoke or have quit within the past 10 years
• Have been a heavy smoker. (defined in pack-years). If you’re unsure how many pack-years you’ve smoked, your GP can help you work this out.

What’s Involved?

1. See your GP – They’ll check if you meet the eligibility criteria and provide a referral if you are eligible.
2. Contact Imaging Associates to book your scan – We provide fully Medicare-funded low-dose CT scans for eligible patients under the program with no cost to patients.
3. Follow up – An expert respiratory radiologist will review your results and send them to your GP. The National Cancer Screening Register (NCSR) will enrol you and send reminders when it’s time to screen again.”
4. If your scan shows no signs of concern, you’ll be invited to screen again in two years. If any abnormalities are found, your GP will guide you through the appropriate next steps.

Why Choose Imaging Associates?

At Imaging Associates, we combine advanced technology, specialist expertise, accurate diagnoses and a strong focus on patient care.

• Fully Bulk-Billed scans for all eligible screening patients—no out-of-pocket cost
• Radiologist-led care – Our radiologists are on-site and available to speak with referring doctors to discuss and assist with findings
• State-of-the-art low-dose CT technology – Delivering high image quality with minimal radiation exposure
• Fast reporting and clear communication – supporting timely clinical decision-making
• A dedicated respiratory nurse to assist with complex case management and clinical advice

For Patients

If you think you may be eligible for lung cancer screening:

• Speak to your GP and ask about a referral to Imaging Associates for your scan
• Or visit our Lung Cancer Screening page for more information

If you’re a GP or specialist:

• Refer your eligible patients to Imaging Associates
• Contact your local Imaging Associates clinic or Customer Relationship Representative for support with referrals or to discuss your patients’ needs see referrer support

Contact us

To learn more about lung cancer screening or to book a scan, visit our page here, or call your nearest Imaging Associates clinic.

Early detection saves lives. If you or a friend or colleague are eligible – speak to your GP about a Lung Cancer Screening referral.