NIOSH Launches Free Mobile Health Screenings for Coal Miners

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is launching its annual mobile health screenings for coal miners from March through May. According to the agency, these free, confidential screenings in West Virginia, Virginia, Alabama, Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana aim to detect black lung disease early to prevent serious health outcomes.

This federal program is now in its 21st year. It focuses on the early detection of black lung disease, which NIOSH identifies as a preventable condition caused by breathing coal mine dust.

Did You Know? This federal mobile health screening program for coal miners is currently in its 21st year of operation.

What is included in the NIOSH coal miner screenings?

The screenings take place in a mobile testing unit and last approximately 30 minutes. According to NIOSH, the process includes a chest X-ray, a blood pressure screening, and a breathing test known as spirometry.

Miners also complete a respiratory questionnaire and provide their work history. By law, these screenings remain confidential.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that deploying state-of-the-art mobile units directly into mining communities removes geographic barriers to care. This approach is critical for a workforce that often faces high occupational risks, as early detection is the primary lever for reducing long-term health complications.

Who is eligible to participate in the program?

NIOSH encourages all coal miners to participate regardless of their current employment status. This includes current and former miners, as well as those who worked underground or on the surface.

Contract miners are also welcome to use the services. “America’s coal miners work hard and sacrifice to keep our nation running,” said CDC’s NIOSH Director John Howard, M.D.

Dr. Howard stated that bringing these services directly to the communities is essential because catching black lung early can help prevent serious health outcomes.

How can coal miners schedule an appointment?

Miners can schedule appointments by calling 1-888-480-4042 or emailing [email protected]. While appointments are recommended, the agency notes that walk-ins are welcome.

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Specific dates, times, and locations are posted on the Coal Workers’ Health Surveillance Program webpage and on X/Twitter and Facebook. Participants can expect to receive their results in approximately 12 weeks.

What may happen next for participants?

Miners who undergo the screening may receive a diagnosis that allows for earlier medical intervention. Because the program supports early detection, participants could potentially reduce their risk of severe lung disease progression.

NIOSH, the federal institute responsible for research and recommendations to prevent work-related deaths and illnesses, may continue to use this data to inform future safety recommendations. More information is available at www.cdc.gov/niosh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the free health screenings?
Current, former, underground, surface, and contract coal miners are all welcome and encouraged to participate.

How long does the screening process take?
The screenings take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

When will miners receive their test results?
Each miner will receive their results in approximately 12 weeks.

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