Six Steps for Building a Successful Incidental Pulmonary Nodule Program

With the right processes, people, and technology, creating an effective and profitable program is achievable. Follow these six proven steps to reach your IPN program goals. 1) Find the right lung coordinator and/or navigator Seek out a leader who is a master communicator and can train others on processes that will help ensure the long-term success of your program. 2) Build a multidisciplinary team with defined roles Coordinate a multi-faceted team of experts who specialize in different aspects of care and meet regularly in a nodule board to discuss suspicious IPNs. 3) Establish workflows early on Create workflow processes early to ensure patient capture and follow-up, and define care pathways so proper attention is paid to each patient. 4) Create a seamless follow-up process Build an efficient process to track and follow your patients throughout their entire journey, from diagnosis to survivorship. 5) Seek out the right technology partner  Find a powerful technology partner that can reduce manual tasks and offer efficiencies that help your team save time. 6) Promote your program Spread the word out about your program by attending service line meetings, communicating with partners, and creating marketing collateral that generates awareness.