The News Herald (Willoughby, OH)
INSURANCE
Q: I was a heavy smoker for many years. I’ve quit but I still worry about its affect. Does Medicare cover screening for early detection of lung cancer for former smokers like me?
A: Your first step should be to discuss your concerns about your smoking history with your doctor. You and your doctor will discuss the benefits and risks of lung cancer screening and decide whether lung cancer screening is right for you. If screening is recommended, Medicare Part B covers Low Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) once per year to detect lung cancer for people who currently smoke or were heavy smokers and have no symptoms of cancer. To qualify for coverage of LDCT, Medicare Part B beneficiaries must meet all of the following conditions: • You are age 55-77 • You do not have signs or symptoms of lung cancer • You are a current smoker or have quit smoking within the last 15 years • You have a history of smoking an average of one pack a day for 30 years • You have an order from your physician or qualified non-physician practitioner
After the first scan, a written order for the scan can be provided during any visit with your health care provider. A separate counseling visit is not required. Your doctor or other health care provider will also provide information on smoking cessation services to current smokers. If you have Original Medicare, there is no coinsurance or deductible for the lung cancer screening if you use providers who take assignment. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, your plan will not charge you deductibles, copays, or coinsurances as long as you see in-network providers. Medicare covers the cost of many preventive services to help keep you healthy, including exams, immuniza- tions, screenings and lab tests, as well as counseling services. You can learn more about Medicare’s preventive services by visiting Medicare.gov and enter preventive services or calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and ask for your copy of Your Guide to Medicare’s Preventive Services. Please contact me if you have questions concerning life, health, Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage plans or other insurance questions. I can be reached at 440-2555700 or Lmutsko@mutskoinsurance.com.