A small spot on the lung may not seem significant, but it could be the first sign of lung cancer. That's why early detection and timely evaluation are so important.
The Covenant HealthCare Lung Nodule Clinic brings together advanced technology and a multidisciplinary team of specialists to identify, evaluate and diagnose lung nodules as early as possible, giving patients the best opportunity for successful treatment when cancer is found.
Lung nodules are often discovered during low-dose CT lung cancer screening or incidentally during imaging performed for another reason. While many nodules are harmless, some require additional evaluation to determine whether they could represent early-stage lung cancer.
To help ensure these findings don't go unnoticed, Covenant HealthCare recently implemented advanced AI software, Eon, that automatically identifies incidental lung nodules on chest imaging performed at Covenant facilities. The technology supports radiologists by flagging potential nodules for review and helps ensure findings are documented and communicated to the ordering provider, allowing patients to receive timely follow-up and evaluation.
For patients who need further evaluation, the Lung Nodule Clinic offers robotic-assisted bronchoscopy, an advanced, minimally invasive procedure that allows physicians to biopsy lung nodules with exceptional precision. Covenant HealthCare introduced the Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy platform in March 2025 and has since performed more than 250 robotic-assisted bronchoscopy procedures—more than any other health system in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
Combined with our experienced care teams, this technology enables physicians to accurately reach and biopsy very small lung nodules, including those measuring just 6 to 7 millimeters. Detecting lung cancer at an earlier stage can expand treatment options and improve outcomes, helping more patients begin treatment when it is most effective.
Beyond advanced technology, the Lung Nodule Clinic provides patients with coordinated, compassionate care every step of the way. Pulmonologists, radiologists, oncology specialists, and other members of the care team work together to streamline the diagnostic process, reduce unnecessary delays, and ease the stress that often comes with unexpected findings.
Patients' primary care providers remain informed throughout the evaluation process. Once testing is complete, patients return to their primary care provider with a personalized follow-up plan and any recommended next steps.
Early detection saves lives. Whether a lung nodule is found during routine screening or unexpectedly on another imaging exam, the Covenant HealthCare Lung Nodule Clinic is committed to helping patients find answers and receive care they need as quickly as possible.
For more information, call Covenant HealthCare Pulmonology at (989) 583-7380.