Cancer Screenings
Cancer Screenings
Earlier detection opens more doors.
Most cancer screenings happen before you notice or even feel symptoms making them an important part of your routine health care needs.
Kootenai Health offers cancer screening and early detection services across North Idaho, including breast imaging, colonoscopy, lung cancer screening, cervical cancer screening, skin evaluations, and prostate cancer risk assessments. Some screenings can be scheduled directly, while others start with a conversation with your primary care doctor about your age, family history, symptoms, or risk factors.
If a screening shows additional evaluation is needed, you are connected directly into advanced imaging, diagnostics, specialty clinics, and coordinated cancer care close to home. From nationally recognized breast imaging to advanced lung screening and navigational bronchoscopy, screening programs at Kootenai Health are designed to help catch concerns earlier and guide patients through what comes next with clearer answers and fewer delays.
Which Cancer Screenings are Available?
Breast Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- Mammography
- Breast MRI for high-risk patients
- Automated Breast Ultrasound System (also called Automated Breast Ultrasound) for patients with dense breasts
Who It’s For
Women based on age, risk factors, and doctor recommendations.
How to Schedule
Mammograms can be scheduled online or by phone without a referral. Mammogram and bone density appointments may also be scheduled together.
→ Call 208-625-6300
Colorectal Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- Colonoscopy
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Stool-based FIT and DNA tests
Who It’s For
Screening is recommended starting at age 45 for average-risk adults, even when no symptoms are present.
What to Expect
Patients receive prep instructions during scheduling, including multiple prep options based on personal preference. Most visits take about 90 minutes to two hours start to finish.
Follow-Up Care
If screening identifies concerns that need additional evaluation, patients may be connected directly into GI specialists, surgery, and cancer care when needed.
How to Schedule
Many individuals do not need a referral for a screening colonoscopy. When you call to schedule, a nurse will first confirm it’s a preventive screening and if you’re not eligible, our team will initiate any referrals needed.
→ Call (208) 625-4595
→ Learn about colonoscopy screening
Cervical Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- Pap test
- HPV test
Who It’s For
Cervical cancer screenings are recommended for women beginning in early adulthood, with timing and frequency based on age, health history, prior results, and risk factors.
How to Schedule
Screenings and preventive gynecologic services are available through Kootenai Health OB/GYN and women’s health providers.
Lung Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- Low-dose CT lung screening
Who It’s For
Adults 50 or older who currently smoke or have a significant smoking history, including former smokers.
Additional Support
An RN Lung Nodule Program Coordinator helps guide patients through follow-up imaging, surveillance, and next steps when needed.
How to Schedule
Talk with your primary care provider about a referral, or call (208) 625-5864 (LUNG) for more information.
Prostate Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- PSA blood test
- Digital rectal exam (DRE)
Who It’s For
Screening decisions should be discussed with a provider based on age, family history, symptoms, and risk factors.
How to Schedule
Talk with your primary care provider about a referral.
Skin Cancer Screening
Recommended Screening
- Professional skin exams
- Self-check guidance for changing spots or moles
What to Watch For
Changes in size, shape, color, itching, bleeding, or sores that do not heal may be signs of skin cancer.
Prevention
Reducing UV exposure and using sunscreen regularly can help lower skin cancer risk.
How to Schedule
To schedule a consultation appointment with Kootenai Clinic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery or Kootenai Clinic Dermatology, call (208) 625-4333.
