Ontario Lung Screening Program (OLSP)
What is the OLSP?
The Ontario Lung Screening Program is a province-wide initiative aimed at identifying lung cancer early among individuals at high risk. Through low-dose CT (computed tomography) scans, the program helps detect lung cancer before symptoms appear, improving outcomes and survival rates.
The Central Regional Cancer Program currently offers lung screening at Southlake Health in Newmarket, Ontario.
Eligibility
Determining eligibility for lung cancer screening is a 2-step process. Not everyone who meets the referral criteria will be eligible for screening in the OLSP.
STEP 1: Referral Criteria
Primary Care Providers or specialists can refer people for lung cancer screening in the OLSP if:
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They are 55 to 80 years old
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They have smoked cigarettes every day for at least 20 years (it does not have to be 20 years in a row, and they do not have to currently smoke)
Self referral: people can also contact Southlake Health at 905-895-4521 ext. 6577 without a doctor referral to have their age and smoking history assessed to determine if eligible for screening.
STEP 2: Risk Assessment
A health care professional from the OLSP will call anyone who meets the age and smoking history criteria in step 1 to conduct a risk assessment. The results of the risk assessment in step 2 will determine whether someone is eligible to get screened for lung cancer in the OLSP.
How the Program Works
1. Referral:
Speak with your healthcare provider to determine if you are eligible for lung cancer screening. If eligible, your provider will complete and submit the referral form.
2. Initial Assessment:
Our team will review your referral and contact you to schedule an initial assessment. This initial assessment will determine your risk factor for developing lung cancer and will identify if a screening CT scan is required.
3. Screening:
Attend your scheduled low-dose CT scan at Southlake Health or one of the partner hospitals/
4. Follow-Up:
Depending on the results, you may receive follow-up care or recommendations for future screenings.
Why Lung Cancer Screening Matters
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Ontario. Lung cancer screening significantly increases lung cancer detection rates at an earlier stage, leading to improved treatment success and survival rates.
Resources for Patients and Healthcare Providers
No Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner?
Call the Central Ontario Lung Screening Program 905-895-4521 extension 6577 to make an appointment with a navigator. If you are eligible for screening, a doctor will make a referral on your behalf.