In a significant stride towards combating lung cancer, the upcoming National Lung Cancer Screening Program (NLCSP) is set to launch in July 2025.
This initiative was the main topic at the recent monthly AH&MRC Updates meeting, where NSW ACCHOs had the opportunity to hear from guest presenters from Heart of Australia and NACCHO about the program’s rollout.
Mobile CT Scanners on the Move
Heart of Australia shared updates on the proposed sites for mobile CT scanners, which will play a crucial role in the NLCSP. They detailed the screening route planning and engagement activities, describing the equity lens they are trying to apply to determine these sites. This approach is aimed at ensuring the screening services reach communities most in need.
Valuable Insights from ACCHO Leaders
A big thank you goes out to the ACCHO CEOs who attended the consultation meeting. Your feedback given to the presenters and the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care who were also in attendance, is instrumental in shaping the decisions regarding the mobile screening sites in NSW.
Eligibility for the NLCSP
The rollout of the NLCSP will involve engaging with NSW ACCHOs to discuss smoking and vaping behaviours being seen in your communities. These are key factors in determining eligibility for lung cancer screening. To better understand these behaviours, the AH&MRC’s Public Health Team is developing a survey to assess the impact of recent vaping legislation changes on community smoking and vaping habits. Stay tuned for more updates!
Addressing Training and Resource Gaps
The AH&MRC Member Engagement team is also conducting a gap analysis to identify training and resource needs related to smoking and vaping cessation among healthcare workers in ACCHOs. AH&MRC aims to ensure that our member services workforce have access to the training they need to support the community through the rollout of the NLCSP. For further information, please see “What do ACCHOs need to support community members on their QUIT journey?”
Further Opportunity for Input from NSW ACCHOs
NACCHO is seeking input from ACCHOs on resources being developed for the NLCSP and broader cancer screening discussions. If you have insights or wish to discuss further, please reach out to Sarah.McDermott@naccho.org.au.
