"It’s unfortunate that lung cancer is often identified and diagnosed at such an advanced stage, when treatment options are limited," said Jack Weiner, SJMO president and chief executive officer.  "The ACR Lung Cancer Screening Center designation is testament to our hospital's commitment to screening, early detection, and aggressive treatment of lung cancer.  We are proud to employ a team of experienced physicians, using the latest technology on the best equipment available."

In order to receive this elite distinction, facilities must be accredited by the ACR in computed tomography (CT) in the chest module, as well as undergo a rigorous assessment of its lung cancer screening protocol and infrastructure.  Also required are procedures in place for follow-up patient care, such as counseling and smoking cessation programs.
Lung cancer screening with low-dose CT scans, and appropriate follow-up care, significantly reduces lung cancer deaths .  Lung cancer is the nation’s leading cancer killer - taking the lives of more people each year than breast, colon and prostate cancers combined.
SJMO offers Low-Dose Lung CT Screening for those considered to be at the highest risk for lung cancer.  A screening costs $125 out-of-pocket, one of the lowest fees in metropolitan Detroit.  Health insurances typically do not cover the cost of Low-Dose Lung CT Screening.

The screening is open to those who meet the following American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) criteria:
· A current or former smoker (former smokers quit within the last 15 years)
· Age 50-79
· Has a smoking history of at least 20 pack years (for example 1 pack/day for 20 years)
A physician's order is required for the screening to be performed.  SJMO has two referral options:
· Patients may contact the hospital's Lung Nurse Navigator, 248-858-3471, to determine if they are eligible.  
· Physicians may refer their patients directly for the screening
To schedule a Low-Dose Lung CT Screening test at SJMO, call 248-858-3777 or go to and select Schedule a Test in the Find it Fast box.

The ACR, founded in 1924, is one of the largest and most influential medical associations in the United States.  The ACR devotes its resources to making imaging and radiation therapy safe, effective and accessible to those who need it.  Its 36,000 members include radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists, interventional radiologists and nuclear medicine physicians.
For more information about the Lung Cancer Screening Center designation, visit: acr.org/Quality-Safety/Lung-Cancer-Screening-Center .

About St. Joseph Mercy Oakland

St. Joseph Mercy Oakland is a 443-bed comprehensive, community, teaching hospital and a long-time leader in health care in Oakland County.  Founded in 1927 by the Sisters of Mercy, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland has won numerous local and national awards for patient safety, quality and performance, and consistently ranks in the top 10 percent of hospitals nationwide.  A member of the Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, St. Joseph Mercy Oakland is a technologically leading hospital that combines advanced medicine and personal care to assist patients on their path to wellness.  SJMO is also a member of the Mercy Cancer Network (MCN), one of Michigan's largest cancer care networks.  MCN member hospitals deliver advanced medicine to local communities, offering the latest in cancer diagnostics, clinical research trials and therapeutic technology.
For more information about health services offered at St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, please visit .