CT Scan Letters Clarification
An important BHS health update from UFA Health & Safety Officer / Sergeant-at-Arms Bill Romaka:Recently some active and retired members have received letters informing them of an opportunity to receive a free CT Scan. Please note that these letters were sent to select individuals based upon initial exposure experience and/or smoking history (those considered to be most exposed and at the highest risk). It is BHS's policy that no duty status change occurs unless a life threatening illness is found or additional follow up testing results dictate such. This program is strictly voluntary and done on a members own time. Results will be communicated via letter or phone contact.
To date BHS has already conducted 1,300 CT Scans of active and retired firefighters exhibiting symptoms and with high exposure. Any firefighter who has symptoms and is part of our WTC Medical Monitoring Program can request to be evaluated for a possible free CT Scan. Chest CT Scan is the only screening CT that is recommended for high risk patients. Body scans are not recommended by the medical organizations because body scans without contrast provide little additional information.
This program is a direct result of American Red Cross and NIOSH funding for the WTC Medical Monitoring and Treatment program and this joint labor/management initiative. At present, no other WTC monitoring and treatment program offers this opportunity. It is important to remember that this program does not take the place of the constant need of medical monitoring with the fire department and your own personal physician.
Fraternally,
Stephen J. Cassidy
President
Joseph A. Miccio
Recording Secretary
