Lung Screenings in Staten Island, NY
Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer related deaths in the United States. Early detection saves lives.
What is a lung screening?
Lung cancer can be detected early through a low dose CT scan without contrast. The CT scan uses x-rays to scan the entire chest in about five to ten seconds during a single breath hold. The entire examination is completed in about 15 minutes.
If a tumor is found while it is small, there is a better chance that it can be removed. CT scans aid in finding lung cancer in their earliest stage, when up to 90% can be cured. If you should need to follow up with a diagnostic procedure Richmond University has a state-of-the-art electromagnetic navigational bronchoscopy (ENB) system. This equipment utilizes GPS to help localize the lesion, allowing us to perform a minimally invasive, incisional-less biopsy. If you need surgery for treatment, employ minimally invasive surgical techniques that utilize Videoscopes. These techniques allow us to perform standard cancer surgery with smaller incisions.
The recommendations, made by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association on March 9, advise people between 50 and 80 years old who have smoked at least a pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years or more (20 “pack” years), and those who either still smoke or quit within the last 15 years to be screened annually.
Contact your primary physician for a referral to RUMC. If you do not have a primary care physician, we will help you. The CT scan is part of a smoker’s and former smoker’s annual physical covered by insurance.
To schedule a screening or for more information, call 718-818-2391
Meet Nancy Rooney, RN, your nurse navigator
Our nurse navigator serves as your advocate throughout the screening process. For you, this coordinated effort translates into faster treatment, better outcomes, and fewer headaches. Navigation services ensure your needs are met in a timely manner. This is a complimentary service; there is no cost to you.
A nurse for over 35 years, Nancy Rooney has an exceptional background in cancer screening. Her efforts in cancer awareness and prevention make her a natural in her position as our lung (pulmonary) nurse navigator. She has many responsibilities in this role, including acting as your educator, friend and advocate.
She will set up your appointment; accompany you to the scan; give you the information you need; and call you with the results. She will also help you figure out your next steps, depending on the results of the scan. Most important? She has a friendly touch that makes the experience a whole lot easier and less intimidating.
Our Team
- Loren J. Harris, MD FACS FCCPChairman, Department of Surgery, Chief, General Thoracic Surgery
- Keith Diaz MD, Division Chief of Pulmonary Medicine
- Nancy Rooney, Pulmonary Nurse Navigator, Tobacco Specialist, ONN-CG, CTTS
“Our team always puts your health first. We work together to make sure you have the resources and answers you need when you need them, starting with our nurse navigator, who will be with you every step of the way. Richmond University Medical Center is at the forefront of lung screenings and education – because we care about the people in our community.” – Keith Diaz, MD Director of the Lung Screening Program
Contact us
Should you have any questions about the lung cancer screening or for more information, please contact:
Nancy Sayegh-Rooney, RN
Pulmonary Nurse Navigator, Tobacco Specialist, ONN-CG, CTTS
W: (718)-818-2391
C: (718)-737-8301
nrooney@rumcsi.org
