Cincinnati Fire Department Screening FAQs
Your Health. Your Future. Your Family.
You run into burning buildings. You breathe in things no one should breathe. You push your body to its limits, and then you do it again tomorrow.
This screening program exists because firefighters face health risks most people never will. Cancer rates among firefighters are significantly higher than the general population. And too often, these conditions go undetected until it’s too late to treat them easily.
The Cincinnati Health & Cancer Screening Program is designed to catch problems early—when they’re most treatable, and keep your health information private.
Here’s what you need to know.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this screening program include?
The program has four phases, rolling out across each fire district:
Phase 1 – Onsite Bloodwork (100% Private) Completed right inside your fire station. Includes CBC, CMP, Thyroid Panel, CA-125 (ovarian cancer screening), PSA, Hepatitis, Quantiferon TB, Colofit (colon cancer screening), and Urinalysis.
Phase 2 – Cancer Ultrasound Screening (100% Private) Non-invasive, radiation-free imaging to detect soft tissue abnormalities early. Performed in a mobile unit at a designated station in your district.
Phase 3 – NFPA Physicals (Clearance Provided to Department) Complete physical exam, skin cancer check, pulmonary function test, hearing/vision testing, and quantitative respiratory fit testing. Same mobile unit as Phase 2.
Phase 4 – Low Dose Chest CT (100% Private – Coming 2026) Mobile CT scanning to detect internal conditions like mesothelioma, lung cancer, and lymphoma. Two convenient locations—one on the west side, one on the east side of the city.
What tests are performed during the ultrasound exam?
Your ultrasound screening covers multiple areas to detect soft tissue abnormalities early:
- Thyroid: Examines structure and can detect abnormalities such as nodules or cancer
- Liver: Checks for structural abnormalities, lesions, or other concerns
- Kidney: Evaluates kidney structure and detects cysts, masses, or other abnormalities
- Bladder: Examines for structural issues or abnormalities
- Testicular (male): Detects potential lumps or abnormalities
- Pelvic (female): Visualizes pelvic organs including uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes for abnormalities
Will the technician notify me if they see anything concerning?
No. While NDS technologists are certified diagnostic sonographers, all images are sent to a Cardiologist and Radiologist who interpret the results professionally. This ensures you receive accurate, properly analyzed information.
Is there preparation required for the test?
Yes, for the best results:
- Fast for 6-8 hours prior to the exam for optimal visualization of organs
- For the bladder ultrasound, drink 32 oz of water one hour before your appointment (we can scan this organ first so you can relieve your bladder before completing the remainder of the exam)
What's included in the NFPA physical?
Your physical includes a complete exam, skin cancer check, result education (so you actually understand what your numbers mean), pulmonary function test, hearing and vision testing, and quantitative respiratory fit testing.
Are my results private?
Yes—with one exception you should know about.
All personal results from the bloodwork, ultrasound, and CT phases are 100% private. Your physical exam results and provider recommendations are also private.
The only information shared with your department is a clearance confirming you completed and passed the respiratory fit testing and hearing test. That’s it. Nothing else.
Your personal health information is protected under HIPAA and will never be shared with your department.
How will I receive my results?
NDS will securely email your report directly to you. If there are any abnormal results (highlighted in red), one of our NDS healthcare providers will personally reach out to review the results and advise you on any recommended follow-up with your primary care physician.
How long does it take to receive results?
Images are reviewed by a Radiologist, so typical turnaround time is 1-2 weeks. Results may be available sooner.
Can I get copies of my ultrasound images?
Yes, images can be provided if needed or requested by your doctor.
Where do I go for these services?
NDS is delivering this program by district, starting with District 1:
- Phase 1 (Bloodwork): Inside your fire station—we come to you
- Phase 2 (Ultrasound): Mobile unit parked at a designated station in your district
- Phase 3 (Physical): Same mobile unit as your ultrasound appointment
- Phase 4 (CT Scan): Separate mobile unit at two locations (one west side, one east side) for convenience
How long does each screening take?
Approximately 30 minutes per appointment.
What if I need follow-up care?
NDS has developed referrals for primary care providers and specialists throughout Cincinnati. These offices were vetted specifically for ease of getting an appointment and confirmed to be accepting new patients. You won’t be left figuring out next steps on your own.
Will my results from the 2020 physicals be available for comparison?
In 2020, NDS partnered with another company to deliver the program. We will have your ultrasound results and stress testing results available for comparison.
For bloodwork: If you have a copy of your blood work results from the 2020 program (from the LabCorp portal), bring them to your physical so the provider can review and compare.
How do I contact NDS with questions?
Email: support@ndswellness.com Call: 888-267-4786
Ready to Schedule?
Scheduling will be completed by your District Supervisor when available.
Your health matters. Your family needs you home. Get the screening.