The National Lung Cancer Screening Program offers a free low-dose CT scan every two years to Australians at higher risk of lung cancer because of their smoking history — before any symptoms appear. Finding lung cancer early dramatically improves the chance of successful treatment.
Benchmark provides the low-dose CT component of the program with a referral from your GP, who checks your eligibility and enrols you.
What to expect
- The scan is a standard low-dose CT — you lie on the table, hold your breath briefly, and it is over in minutes.
- No injections, no contrast and no preparation.
- Our on-site Radiologist reports the scan using the program’s structured reporting system.
- Your GP receives the result and discusses any follow-up with you.
Types we offer
- Who the program is for — broadly, people aged 50–70 with a significant smoking history and no current symptoms — your GP confirms eligibility against the program criteria and enrols you.
- What it is not — a test for people with symptoms. If you have a cough that will not settle, blood in sputum or unexplained weight loss, see your GP promptly — different tests apply.
How to prepare
| Examination | Typical preparation |
|---|---|
| Screening low-dose CT | No preparation. Wear comfortable clothing without metal across the chest. |
These are general guidelines — please follow the specific instructions we give you when you book or arrive.
What to bring
- Your screening referral from your GP.
- Your Medicare card.
Your results
Our on-site Radiologist reports your scan to your GP through the program. Most results simply set the date of your next screen; if anything needs a closer look, your GP will explain the next steps.
Common questions
Am I eligible?
Eligibility depends on your age, smoking history and current health, under the national program criteria. Your GP can check in a few minutes and enrol you if you qualify.
How much radiation does the scan use?
A low-dose CT uses a fraction of the dose of a standard chest CT — the program is designed so the benefit of early detection clearly outweighs the small radiation risk for eligible people.
What happens if something is found?
Most findings just mean an earlier repeat scan. If anything needs investigation, your GP will arrange the right follow-up — usually further imaging or a specialist opinion.
I have symptoms — should I book a screening scan?
No. Screening is only for people without symptoms. See your GP — they will arrange the right diagnostic test instead, which we can also perform.