Lung Care
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You'll need a referral for pulmonary care at NKC Health. For more information, call (816) 691-5098.
Pulmonology (Lung Care)
When it’s hard to breathe, even simple activities can feel overwhelming. The pulmonary and critical care specialists at NKC Health are here to help find treatments that help you manage your condition and find ways to breathe easier.
Our pulmonary and critical care specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, advanced care for our neighbors in North Kansas City and the surrounding areas. As the only hospital in the Northland with a pulmonary rehabilitation program certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, we bring nationally recognized expertise close to home.
From chronic conditions to sudden illness, our team is here to help you breathe easier. Here, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, critical care doctors and rehab specialists work together to provide care that’s both cutting-edge and compassionate.
Lung and breathing conditions we treat
Our pulmonologists and critical care specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of lung and respiratory conditions, including:
- Chronic lung diseases such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, and bronchiectasis
- Genetic and inflammatory conditions like cystic fibrosis and sarcoidosis
- Breathing and airway concerns, including sleep apnea, tracheal disorders and pleural effusions
- Lung cancer and other serious illnesses affecting the lungs and airways
- Infections and related issues, such as pneumonia, bronchitis and esophageal disorders
- Pulmonary complications, including hypertension and fibrosis
Pulmonology tests and procedures
Our specialists have several advanced methods of diagnosing an issue, including:
- A sleep study to look for issues such as sleep apnea
- Imaging tests such as chest computed tomography (CT) scans or low-dose CT screenings for lung cancer
- Lung and airway exams, including bronchoscopy and, if needed, lung biopsy
Low-dose CT screening
If you’re at higher risk for developing lung cancer, a low-dose CT (LDCT) scan can help detect the disease before symptoms begin. The test uses special X-ray technology to take detailed pictures of your lungs. It is quick, painless and accurate. Research shows treatment is more successful the earlier cancer is found.
Who should get screened?
The American Cancer Society recommends annual LDCT scans if you:
- Are between 50 and 80 years old
- Currently smoke or used to smoke
- Have a smoking history of 20 or more pack a year
Most insurance plans cover this scan at 100% for people who qualify. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage, then call (816) 691-5267 to schedule your lung screening with a physician referral.
Personalized pulmonology treatment
We treat patients, not symptoms. Each care plan reflects your health, lifestyle and goals. It may include:
- Education, resources and ongoing support
- Medications to manage symptoms and prevent complications
- Pulmonary rehabilitation to strengthen your lungs
- Smoking & vaping cessation programs
- Advanced care, including lung transplant services, when needed
Inpatient respiratory therapy
If you’re admitted to NKC Health, you’ll have direct access to a team of physicians who specialize in treating breathing issues. Whether your condition affects your windpipe or lungs, these specialists will work with you to help you breathe easier.
- Pulmonologists diagnose and treat complex breathing problems.
- Respiratory therapists deliver oxygen, give medications directly to the lungs and manage ventilators.
Thoracic surgery
Our thoracic surgeons use robotic surgery and other minimally invasive approaches to treat lung and airway conditions. Based on your needs and goals, treatment may include:
- Minimally invasive approaches, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for diagnosing and treating chest problems.
- Treating the windpipe (trachea), including procedures to remove narrow or damaged sections.
- Esophageal surgery to treat cancer or other serious conditions of the esophagus.
- Removing tumors or diseased tissue, such as a wedge resection (small area), segmentectomy (part of a lobe), lobectomy (entire lobe), or pneumonectomy (an entire lung).