Phoebe Locations Recognized as Centers of Excellence in Lung Cancer Screening

Albany & Americus, GA | April 9, 2026 – Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and Phoebe Sumter Radiology have been named Centers of Excellence (COE) in Lung Cancer Screening by GO2 for Lung Cancer (GO2) in recognition of their ongoing commitment to providing patient-centered, evidence-based lung cancer screening in southwest Georgia.

“Receiving this designation reflects Phoebe’s commitment to providing the highest quality care for the communities we serve,” said Troy Kimsey, MD, Surgical Oncologist and Medical Director of Oncology at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. “Low-dose CT screening is a safe and proven way to detect lung cancer early. Being recognized as a GO2 Center of Excellence affirms our dedication to responsible screening practices and lifesaving early detection.”

Phoebe’s successful Lung Watch program provides annual CT scans for qualifying patients at high risk of developing lung cancer. At both the Albany and Americus locations, Phoebe’s expert teams use advanced 64-slice low-dose CT scanners, which use up to 90% less radiation than conventional chest CT scans while providing detailed lung images.

“We are fortunate that our health system has invested in technology and services that allow us to provide quality, advanced imaging services right here at Phoebe Sumter in Americus. Residents in and around Sumter County don’t have to travel far for this potentially lifesaving care,” said Kelsey Reed, DNP, Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Phoebe Sumter.

An estimated 237,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer each year, with most cases detected at advanced stages of the disease. As a result, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States. Through screening individuals at high risk using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), lung cancer can now be detected earlier when it is most treatable and even curable.

“We are proud to welcome Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital and Phoebe Sumter Radiology into the national community of GO2 for Lung Cancer Centers of Excellence,” said Joelle Fathi, Chief Healthcare Delivery Officer at GO2 for Lung Cancer. “Across the U.S., most people at risk for or living with lung cancer receive care close to home at community hospitals. Through the GO2 COE network, we support collaboration and shared expertise that brings cutting-edge early detection, treatment, and care directly to local communities.”

GO2 Centers of Excellence in lung cancer screening are committed to patient-centered communication, shared decision-making, and evidence-based care throughout the entire screening and care pathway. Designated programs adhere to national guidelines established by leading professional organizations such as the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and ensure coordinated follow-up, diagnostic evaluation, and transition to treatment through a multidisciplinary clinical approach.

Founded by patients and survivors, GO2 is dedicated to increasing survival for those at risk, diagnosed and living with lung cancer. According to the organization, it relentlessly confronts lung cancer on every front, every day, for everyone.

If you’re interested in learning more about Phoebe’s Lung Watch, talk to your primary care physician or call 229-312-5753.