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+ Have a history of smoking the equivalent of a pack of cigarettes per day for 30 years. Recognizing that not all patients at high risk for lung cancer fall under the strict CMS guidelines for lung cancer screenings, Dr. Connery has devised more categories to make screenings accessible within the Health Quest program to other patients with elevated risk factors. "We have other modes of entry for patients who have less smoking exposure but may have significant secondhand smoke exposure, occupational exposure or a family history of lung cancer," Dr. Connery says. "We look at biomarkers to risk-stratify patients, which allows for further research. Patients sign a consent for the screening, but we believe tracking this data can better define the best candidates." Dr. Connery cites compelling reasons to expand lung cancer screenings at Health Quest. Lung cancer data does not always support the stereotype of smoker as cancer patient. For example, more than 20 percent of women with lung cancer are not smokers. The diversity of potential patients highlights the importance of early detection for increased survivorship, especially as most screenings are performed on asymptomatic patients. "Patients who are screened and have screening-identified lung cancer are usually diagnosed in earlier stages when the disease STAR Certified Cancer Care As part of a Survivorship Training and Rehabilitation (STAR) certified oncology program by Oncology Rehab Partners, Health Quest's providers underwent an extensive training process. The STAR designation promotes a multidisciplinary approach for clinicians and practitioners working with the patient to establish an individualized treatment plan that fosters the best possible out - comes with a focus on training, implementation, outcomes and continuing education for providers. testament to the quality of care Dr. Connery and the Thoracic Oncology Division have brought to the Hudson Valley." Lung Cancer Screenings In recognition of Health Quest's com- mitment to safe and efficient lung cancer screenings, Vassar Brothers Medical Center earned certification earlier this year as a Screening Center of Excellence by the Lung Cancer Alliance, a leading advocacy group. Lung cancer screenings are available at all three Health Quest sites: Northern Dutchess Hospital, Putnam Hospital Center and Vassar Brothers Medical Center. " We a re pa r ticipating w it h t he International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP), which originated the concept of lung cancer screenings and tracks diagnoses and data management," says Dr. Connery, who took the helm of the program last year. "With programs in cancer care and support, smok ing cessat ion a nd nurse navigation, we have already met the Lung Cancer Alliance requirements." In accordance with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) guidelines for lung cancer screening with a low-dose CT scan, patients meeting certain criteria may be eligible to have the screening cost covered by insurance, if they: + Are current smokers or have quit smoking within the previous 15 years and are between the ages of 55–77. The navigation bronchoscopy technology extends the reach of diagnostic capabilities. The multidisciplinary rounding team includes physicians, advanced practice professionals and other staff. M D N E W S . CO M ■ MD NEWS Mid Hudson | 7