HRICS National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP)

The National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) is a screening program using low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT) scans to look for lung cancer in high-risk people without any symptoms. It aims to find lung cancer early and save lives. (Australian Government, July 2025)

The Program has commenced nationally across Australia on 1st July 2025.

HRICS role in planning and implementation of the NLCSP within the Hume Region has focused on early planning, stakeholder engagement, diagnostics and predictive data modelling analysis to assess the current state and potential impacts. This early work has identified opportunities and challenges of this National Program for our Health providers and communities. In addition, we have consulted with the Victorian Department of Health – Cancer Planning unit on the statewide approach including advocacy of regional impacts and resourcing for the Program.

Moving forward, HRICS focus will be on continued engagement with health service executives and key stakeholders to support in service redesign initiatives, enabling the successful integration of the national Program. This may include updating processes and guidelines, aligning clinical pathways and referral systems to Victorian public lung nodule clinics, supporting models of care that are both equitable and sustainable, and establishing mechanisms for ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

References:–  Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (July, 2025) National Lung Cancer Screening Program, https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp

NLCSP Links:

Australian Government website – National Lung Cancer Screening Program https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp

NLCSP Program Guidelines – National Lung Cancer Screening Program –https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/nlcsp Guidelines | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing

National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation [NACCHO] https://www.naccho.org.au/cancer/lung-cancer/

Lung Foundation Australia – Workforce Education https://lungfoundation.com.au/health-professionals/training-and-events/national-lung-cancer-screening-program-health-workforce-education/

VCCC Alliance – Lung Cancer Screening Education Hub –  Lung Cancer Screening Education Hub  VCCC Alliance Centre for Cancer Education https://vcccalliancelearn.org.au/index.php/2025NLCSP#Courses