Mid Essex

The NHS Lung Cancer Screening Programme started in Chelmsford in Mid Essex in April 2026. 

This area has been selected as it has higher incidences and later diagnoses of lung cancer, making it a priority area for early testing.

Invites will be going out to eligible patients in a phased way as we work around Mid Essex.

If you are a resident of Mid Essex and registered with one of the GP practices then please wait to see if you receive an invite. Eligibility will be for people with a history of smoking in the 55-74 age group, registered with a participating GP practice.

This live-saving programme is designed to detect cancer before any noticeable symptoms appear. Early detection allows people to begin treatment sooner, leading to better long-term health outcomes and potentially saving lives.

What to expect

If you are eligible, you will receive a letter or text message inviting you for an initial Lung Health Check.

The initial assessment will take place over the phone or in person with a health professional. During the initial Lung Health Check, you will be asked some questions about your breathing, overall lung health, lifestyle and family and medical history.

There are three possible results from your lung health check:

• No problems found – the health professional may find nothing further to investigate and you will be discharged from the lung health check programme. We will write to your GP to tell them this.
• Referral to your GP – if problems with your breathing or lung health are found, you might be referred to your GP. The team will write to your GP so they know about the outcome.
• Offered a scan of your lungs – If you are assessed to be at a higher risk of lung cancer now or in the future you will be offered a scan of your lungs (a Low Dose CT scan).

Location and contact details

The lung health check will be performed over the phone. You will be asked questions to assess your risk. If you are deemed to be high risk you will be invited to a low dose CT scan in a community setting. These are usually in locations that are easily accessible such as supermarket car parks or sometimes in local leisure centres.

We look at local bus routes and car park facilities when we select our sites to make them accessible.