BGMC/GVI Recognized as a Center of Excellence for Lung Cancer Screening

Updated: Thursday, November 13, 2025 4:06 PM

BGMC/GVI Recognized as a Center of Excellence for Lung Cancer Screening

Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute (BGMC/GVI) has been named a Center of Excellence (COE) by GO2 for Lung Cancer (GO2) for its ongoing commitment to providing the Western New York (WNY) Community with patient-centered, evidence-based lung cancer screening.

Each year, an estimated 237,000 Americans are diagnosed with lung cancer, with most cases discovered at an advanced stage of the disease. As a result, lung cancer has long been the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. By using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) to screen individuals at high risk, this disease can now be detected earlier, when it is most treatable and even curable.

GO2 Centers of Excellence are dedicated to patient-centered communication and shared decision-making across the entire care pathway. They follow evidence-based screening guidelines from professional organizations such as the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), ensuring proper coordination of patient follow-up, diagnostics, and transition to treatment through a multidisciplinary clinical approach.

Under the leadership of Yaron Perry, MD, FACS, professor of surgery, chief division of thoracic surgery, and medical director of thoracic oncology at BGMC/GVI, the lung cancer service program at BGMC/GVI has been significantly expanded and strengthened. His efforts in building a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach to early detection, treatment, and follow-up care have been integral to earning this prestigious recognition.

Supporting these advancements, Sandip Saha, MD, BSc (H), chief of interventional pulmonology, has further enhanced lung cancer staging and diagnosis. He has introduced the ION Robotic Navigation Bronchoscopy platform, along with the Siemens CIOS mobile CT scanner, to make our program the first and only fully integrated 3D program in all of WNY. He has also implemented tele-cytology for all cases, in order to ensure adequacy in the diagnosis. This process was recognized and awarded by the World Pulmonary Association.

"BGMC/GVI is dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality care," said Karen Blount, MS, RN, NEA-BC, president of BGMC/GVI. "Low-dose CT screening is the only proven method to detect lung cancer at the earliest, most treatable stage. We are honored to be part of this elite network, setting the standard for responsible screening practices."

In addition to this newly awarded designation as a Center of Excellence in Lung Cancer Screening, BGMC/GVI is also recognized by GO2 as a Center of Excellence in the following areas:

• Cancer Care - Demonstrating access to comprehensive cancer services within medical, radiation, and surgical oncology and pathology.
• Incidental Pulmonary Nodules - Providing a structured program for identifying and managing incidentally found lung nodules with standardized follow-up processes.
• Biomarker Testing and Precision Medicine - Ensuring access to advanced molecular and immune biomarker testing to guide personalized treatment options.
• Smoking Cessation - Offering evidence-based cessation support across the continuum of care.
• Multidisciplinary Team - Engaging a collaborative team of lung cancer specialists and navigators who meet regularly to guide patient care.
• Survivorship - Supporting survivorship care plans and resources to improve the quality of life for all lung cancer patients.
• Patient-Centric Research - Connecting patients to clinical trial opportunities when appropriate.
• Community Engagement - Promoting awareness and education about lung cancer throughout the community.
• Equity - Advancing health equity and inclusion for all individuals in the community.

This recognition is a testament to the dedication, collaboration, and compassion of our BGMC/GVI team. Their continued commitment to excellence and patient-centered care ensures that our community receives the very best in prevention, early detection, and treatment.