Black Lung Services
At Southern West Virginia Health System, we proudly provide specialized care and services, and we are able to do so by integrating the Black Lung Program in our health system.
The Black Lung Program assists active, inactive, retired, and disabled U.S. coal miners that are affected by job-related lung disease, along with those who may be facing respiratory problems. According to a report from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, one in ten underground coal miners who have worked in the mines for at least 25 years were diagnosed as having black lung disease.
The Black Lung Program provides medical, outreach, educational, and benefits services to coal miners in the U.S.
Our primary locations that provide black lung services include:
- SWVHS-Man
- SWVHS- Whitesville – Program in development with recent merger of Hygeia Foundation Facilities, Inc. into Southern West Virginia Health System
- SWVHS- Oceana – Program in development with recent merger of Hygeia Foundation Facilities, Inc. into Southern West Virginia Health System
We can also provide black lung services at the following locations:
- SWVHS-Delbarton
- SWVHS-Gilbert
- SWVHS-Logan
- Madison Medical
- SWVHS- Wharton – Program in development with recent merger of Hygeia Foundation Facilities, Inc. into Southern West Virginia Health System
What is Black Lung?
Coal workers’ pneumoconiosis, also known as black lung, is a complex disease caused by inhaling coal mine dust. Pneumoconiosis is the scarring of lung tissue when breathing in mineral dusts. The disease may take years to develop, but it often leads to lung impairment, disability, and premature death. Therefore, it is important to talk with your family medicine or pulmonary provider about black lung screenings.
What is an HRSA-funded black lung clinic?
As a HRSA-funded black lung clinic we provide the following services to coal miners:
- Education and outreach for Black Lung diseases
- Screening, diagnosis, and treatment
- Patient & family education
- Benefits counseling
- Patient care & Coordination
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
What can I expect at a Black Lung Program Appointment?
During your appointment, you will receive one on one specialty care that focuses on respiratory services. During your appointment you may discuss your social and medical history, visit with your provider to see if/what tests will need to be ordered, and receive education on topics that will benefit you and your health.
Who is eligible?
The Black Lung Program is open to anyone that has respiratory problems and is interested in participating in the program.
How can I participate in the Black Lung Program?
If you are interested in participating in the black lung program, please call 304-583-8585 ext. 3215 or call the location nearest you.
Do I need a referral to participate in the Black Lung Program?
You do not need a referral to participate in the Black Lung Program.
Do I need medical coverage to participate in the program?
If you are a coal miner participating in the program for a claims process, there is not an out of pocket charge. If you are not filing a claim but are experiencing respiratory problems and want to participate in the Black Lung Program, your insurance may be billed. We also have Sliding Fee services available for those who are eligible.
To learn more, please visit: https://www.hrsa.gov/rural-health/grants/black-lung
Where can I call to learn more about the Black Lung Program at Southern West Virginia Health System?
To learn more about our Black Lung Program and how you can schedule an appointment, please call 304-583-8585 ext. 3215
