DHR Health Becomes First in the Valley Designated as Lung Cancer Screening and Care Center of Excellence

Edinburg, Texas: Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., claiming more lives each year than breast, prostate, and colon cancers combined. Unlike other cancers that have seen significant advances in early detection and treatment, lung cancer is frequently diagnosed in its later stages, when survival rates are much lower and treatment is more difficult. However, early detection can significantly increase survival rates.

In recognition of World Lung Day, observed each year on September 25, DHR Health is proud to announce its designation as a Center of Excellence (COE) in Lung Cancer Screening and in Lung Cancer Care by GO2 for Lung Cancer (GO2). Founded by patients and survivors, GO2 is a national organization dedicated to increasing survival for those at risk, diagnosed with, and living with lung cancer.

These prestigious COE designations are reserved for hospitals that meet the highest standards in lung cancer care, from low-dose CT (LDCT) screening and timely diagnosis to coordinated treatment and comprehensive patient support. GO2 works closely with designated sites to ensure best practices are followed, particularly in communities where access is limited. DHR Health is the only health system south of San Antonio to hold both COE designations, ensuring patients in the Rio Grande Valley receive nationally recognized lung cancer care close to home.

“This national recognition is an important milestone for our hospital and for the Rio Grande Valley,” said Marissa Castañeda, senior executive vice president at DHR Health. “It highlights the work our team is doing to ensure patients have access to early detection and expert care close to home.”

A key component of this designation is DHR Health’s Lung Nodule Program, which was designed to detect lung cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. The program starts with a LDCT scan, recommended for adults between the ages of 50 and 80 with a history of smoking. To help increase access to this potentially life-saving screening, DHR Health has extended its $99 LDCT lung cancer screening special through December 31.

To strengthen this process, DHR Health uses the Eon system, an artificial intelligence system that scans radiology reports to catch small lung spots (nodules) that might otherwise be overlooked. By flagging these incidental findings and alerting the care team, the Eon system helps detect cancer earlier and moves patients through their care journey faster.

If a suspicious nodule is found, patients may be referred for a biopsy using the Ion Robotic-Assisted Bronchoscopy System—a minimally invasive technology that allows pulmonologists to navigate deep into the lungs with precision. Should the biopsy come back as cancerous, DHR Health is equipped to remove it using the da Vinci 5, an advanced minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgical system. With support from a dedicated lung navigator and a team of expert physicians, patients receive coordinated care and guidance every step of the way, from screening through diagnosis and treatment.

“Our goal is to catch lung cancer early and guide patients through every step of care,” said Dr. Federico Vallejo, DHR Health pulmonologist and robotic-assisted bronchoscopist. “By offering advanced tools and coordinated care, we increase the chances of early diagnosis—which can significantly improve survival rates. We are honored to have received this designation and will continue our efforts in addressing the disparities in lung cancer detection and treatment.”

As we observe World Lung Day, DHR Health reaffirms its commitment to expanding access to early screening and specialized lung cancer care for patients across the Rio Grande Valley. For more information or to schedule a LDCT screening, call (956) 362-LUNG (5864).