Lung Cancer Screening

Annual low-dose CT (LDCT) screening recommended for adults at high risk for lung cancer, primarily long-term heavy smokers aged 50–80. Oklahoma has one of the lowest lung cancer screening rates in the U.S. at 9%, contributing to a higher-than-average lung cancer mortality rate. The RHTP allocates $2.3 million to embed Lung Screening Program Directors in 11 rural health systems and develop sustainable billing infrastructure.

Cancer screening is a key measure in value-based care quality metrics and a priority in the National Cancer Plan released by the Biden administration. Rural areas consistently have lower screening rates and higher cancer mortality, driven by distance to screening facilities, lack of provider recommendation, and limited health literacy. Telehealth can improve screening rates by enabling remote risk assessment, shared decision-making consultations required before LDCT, and follow-up coordination — all services that can be delivered through Portal infrastructure. The RHTP's investment in lung cancer screening sustainability — establishing billing through Medicaid and other payers — demonstrates the state's commitment to making screening a permanent part of rural health infrastructure.