Name of the Procedure:

Counseling Visit to Discuss Need for Lung Cancer Screening Using Low Dose CT Scan (LDCT)
HCPCS Code: G0296

Summary

This procedure involves a counseling visit with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential need for lung cancer screening using a low dose CT scan. The visit is aimed at determining eligibility for the screening and facilitating shared decision-making between the patient and the healthcare provider.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Lung cancer risk assessment
• Determining eligibility for lung cancer screening

Goals and Expected Outcomes:

• Evaluate patient's risk factors and suitability for LDCT screening
• Educate the patient on benefits, risks, and alternatives
• Facilitate informed and shared decision-making regarding lung cancer screening

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Current or former smokers
• Age typically between 50 to 80 years
• Individuals with at least a 20 pack-year smoking history

Patient Criteria:

• Asymptomatic adults at high risk for lung cancer
• Patients without recent chest CT scans for other reasons

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• Bring a list of current medications and medical history
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments required

Diagnostic Tests and Assessments:

• Detailed smoking history
• General health and medical history review

Procedure Description

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Initial consultation and history taking
2. Discussion of the patient's risk factors for lung cancer
3. Explanation of the LDCT procedure, benefits, and risks
4. Review of alternative screening or monitoring options
5. Addressing patient's questions and concerns
6. Shared decision-making to determine if the screening is appropriate

Tools and Equipment:

• Educational materials (e.g., brochures, diagrams)
• Risk assessment tools

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable

Duration

• Typically 20 to 30 minutes

Setting

• Outpatient clinic or healthcare provider’s office

Personnel

• Primary care physician
• Nurse or medical assistant

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Anxiety or stress related to discussing lung cancer risk

Rare Risks:

• Misunderstanding of the information provided

Management:

• Providing clear and empathetic communication
• Follow-up appointments for further discussion if needed

Benefits

• Personalized assessment of lung cancer risk
• Informed decision-making regarding lung cancer screening
• Early detection potential for lung cancer, improving prognosis

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• No specific care required after the counseling visit

Recovery Time:

• Immediate resumption of normal activities

Follow-up Appointments:

• Scheduled based on decision made during the visit

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• No immediate screening and continued monitoring
• Other forms of diagnostic imaging if indicated

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Continuation of monitoring may delay early detection of lung cancer
• Other imaging methods may not be as effective for early lung cancer detection but could be considered if more suitable for the patient's condition

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Expect a conversational and informative session
• No physical discomfort

After the Procedure:

• Relief from understanding risks and benefits
• Empowerment from shared decision-making process
• No physical recovery needed

Pain Management:

• Not applicable due to the non-invasive nature of the counseling session