Lung Cancer Screening Starts July 1 – What Brisbane GPs Need to Know

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Lung Cancer Screening Starts July 1 –
What Brisbane GPs Need to Know

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program launches this July, marking a pivotal opportunity for early detection in high-risk Australians. Using a low dose CT scan, the program targets asymptomatic individuals aged 50–70 with significant smoking histories.

After the Scan – What Happens?

Low dose CT results are stratified by risk. Most patients will re-scan at 3–24 months. About 2–3% will require immediate specialist referral.

However, many scans will identify additional findings like:

  • Emphysema
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Interstitial lung disease (ILD)
Refer your patient for a lung cancer screening

Key Eligibility Criteria

  • 30+ pack-year smoking history
  • Current smoker or quit within 10 years
  • Age 50–70
  • No active symptoms of lung cancer
Lung Study | North Brisbane Sleep & Thoracic | North Lakes & Clayfield | Brisbane

How NBST Supports You and Your Patients

NBST is one of the leading respiratory and lung clinics in Brisbane, with expert lung specialists providing:

  • Detailed lung cancer workup and nodule management
  • Lung function testing in North Brisbane (available at our North Lakes and Clayfield locations)
  • Support for smoking-related lung diseases
  • Access to Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS)

We also offer respiratory review for findings not requiring urgent action but that warrant monitoring or diagnosis, such as:

Practical Tips for GPs

  • Use validated tools or EMR-based calculators to determine a patient’s pack-year smoking history accurately.
  • Record the patient’s smoking cessation date clearly to confirm eligibility for the screening program.
  • Review structured radiology reports closely for any incidental findings, even when cancer risk is low.
  • Refer for lung function testing when radiologic emphysema or interstitial changes are identified, even in asymptomatic patients.
  • Maintain a low threshold for Respiratory Physician referral in patients with complex findings, ongoing respiratory symptoms, or abnormal pulmonary function.
  • Contact NBST directly to discuss borderline or complex cases—we’re available for clinical support and advice.
Ask us for support
Lung Symptoms | North Brisbane Sleep & Thoracic | North Lakes & Clayfield | Brisbane

Urgent Referrals

If a patient requires urgent assessment, please clearly mark the referral as URGENT.

To expedite priority triaging:

  1. Submit the referral via Medical Objects.

  2. Call our practice immediately on 1300 391 820 to notify our administration team of the urgent submission.