Cancer screening and cancer support services
Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network (EMPHN) is working with primary healthcare professionals in our region to improve cancer screening rates, and to ensure that anyone diagnosed with cancer has access to the best possible care, regardless of where they live or where they have cancer treatment.
On this page:
Cancer screening
Cancer screening programs
General practices play an important role in increasing cancer screening rates, by promoting education and awareness within the community.
There are four national screening programs:
- National Bowel Cancer Screening Program
- BreastScreen Australia Program
- National Cervical Screening Program
- National Lung Cancer Screening Program
Cancer screening resources
Lung Cancer Screening Program – Referral Form
You can access the paper-based Eligibility and Enrolment Form here: National Lung Cancer Screening Program – Eligibility and Enrolment Form
Submission Options:
Fax:Â 1800 154 854
Mail: National Lung Cancer Screening Program | Reply Paid 94632 | SUNSHINE VIC 3020
Lung Cancer Screening Program – GP Consults and Item Numbers
While there are no specific MBS item numbers for GP consultations under the screening program, standard consult items (e.g. 23, 36, 44) can be used depending on the complexity and time involved.
The program does include dedicated imaging items:
– Item 57410: Initial screening low-dose CT scan
– Item 57413: Follow-up low-dose CT scan
Both are bulk billed under the program and follow the NLCSP nodule management protocol.
Cancer support
General practice plays an essential and evolving role in providing personalised cancer prevention and care by offering support, advocacy, holistic care, and health promotion.
Cancer support services
Support services available to support GPs and patients.
Support services available to support GPs and patients within priority groups.
Optimal Care Pathways for Cancer
Optimal Care Pathways (OCPs) are national guidelines that outline the best possible care for individuals with various types of cancer, covering the entire journey from diagnosis to survivorship or end-of-life care.
OCPs serve as a valuable resource for both clinicians managing cancer and patients themselves.
OCPs aim to:
- Provide healthcare professionals with a national approach to cancer care.
- Drive service improvements based on current best practice.
- Organise service delivery to achieve the best outcomes for people with cancer.
- Provide easy to understand patient information.
OCPs are not intended to be used as a substitute for detailed clinical practice guidelines.