Imaging Equipment 

  • Low-Dose CT Scanner: The most critical technology for lung cancer screening. Mobile units typically use a compact, low-dose CT scanner optimized for detecting small lung nodules with minimal radiation exposure. 
    • Examples: Siemens SOMATOM Go, GE Optima CT660, Canon Aquilion Lightning. 

 

Mobile Vehicle Infrastructure 

  • Customized Vehicle: A mobile unit requires a specially designed vehicle, typically a large truck or bus, to accommodate the CT scanner, power requirements, and other necessary systems. 
  • Power Supply: Reliable generators or connection to local power sources. Some mobile units also incorporate solar panels or energy-efficient systems. 
  • Climate Control: Temperature and humidity regulation are crucial to ensure the optimal functioning of sensitive equipment. 
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: For real-time data transmission and communication with the central medical facility. Some units are exploring the use of Starlink for transmitting scans.  

Learn more about the Siemens Healthineers Mobile Lung Health Screening Unit here.  

 

Imaging Software 

  • PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System): A medical imaging technology used for storing, retrieving, managing, and distributing CT scan images. 
    • Examples: GE Healthcare Centricity PACS, Carestream PACS. 
  • DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) Software: A standard protocol for managing and transmitting medical imaging information. 

 

Patient Management and Scheduling Software 

  • Electronic Health Record (EHR) Integration: The mobile unit must integrate with your EHR system to ensure patient data can be securely transmitted and synchronized with hospital or clinic records. 
  • Patient Scheduling System: A tool for managing appointments, tracking patient flow, and appropriately scheduling follow-ups. . We recommend integrating your mobile lung cancer screening unit with your lung cancer screening program as well as your incidental nodule clinic, ensuring that you utilize the same services across these areas. 
    • Examples: eClinicalWorks, AthenaHealth. 
  • Text Messaging: Patient outreach and patient follow-up are critical, and it’s important to communicate with patients outside of phone calls and letters.  HIPPA-compliant text messaging services are helpful for getting in touch with results and overall compliance with screening adherence.  
    • Example: Rhinogram   

 

Fleet Management Software 

  • GPS and Routing Software: Used for logistical planning, ensuring the mobile unit can efficiently reach underserved or high-risk populations. 
    • Examples: Verizon Connect, Fleet Complete. 

These technologies work together to ensure that a mobile lung cancer screening unit delivers high-quality care, efficiently manages patient data, and communicates seamlessly with healthcare providers. The mobile unit will utilize the existing logistical network established for the lung cancer screening program.  

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