Bon Secours using new procedure to diagnose & treat lung conditions
August 11, 2026
(L) Dr. Jonathan Daniel & (R) Dr. Nate Phillips
New approach lets Bon Secours doctors diagnose & treat lung conditions in one visit
Physicians at Bon Secours are offering new hope for patients with suspected lung cancer and other cancers within the lung through an innovative approach that allows doctors to diagnose and treat the condition in a single procedure.
Typically, patients with small lung nodules face a longer, more complex journey that can include repeated imaging scans, separate biopsy procedures, specialist appointments, and eventually surgery. It’s a process that can take weeks or even months.
“This approach is about reducing the stress and uncertainty patients often experience,” said Dr. Nate Phillips, a pulmonologist with Bon Secours Palmetto Pulmonary & Critical Care. “Instead of waiting for answers and coming back for additional procedures, we’re able to move forward right away with both diagnosis and treatment.”
During the procedure, doctors use advanced robotic bronchoscopy technology to precisely navigate the airways and biopsy any nodules found. A pathologist analyzes the samples in real time while the patient is still under anesthesia, allowing the care team to quickly confirm whether cancer or other concerning findings within the lung are present.
Once a diagnosis is made, the care team can immediately move to treatment, if necessary, using fluorescent dye to locate the nodules. Then, a thoracic surgeon like Dr. Jonathan Daniel with Bon Secours Carolina Surgical Associates, can perform a minimally invasive robotic surgery to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy lung tissue as possible.
“When a patient wakes up, they get immediate answers – not just about whether cancer was found, but in many cases, that cancer has already been removed,” said Dr. Daniel. “That’s a significant difference compared to the traditional process.”
This coordinated, team-based approach brings together multiple advanced technologies – robotic bronchoscopy, real-time pathology, fluorescence imaging, and minimally invasive surgery – into one seamless experience designed to improve outcomes and reduce patient burden. In South Carolina, Bon Secours is one of the only medical centers currently offering this type of same-setting diagnosis and treatment for cancers within the lung.
Bon Secours encourages individuals, especially those with a history of smoking or other risk factors, to talk with their doctor about lung cancer screening and whether they may benefit from the latest minimally invasive options. To learn more or find a provider nearest you, visit bonsecours.com.
About Bon Secours Mercy Health
Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) is a global Catholic health ministry in the United States, Ireland and the Philippines. A $14 billion organization, BSMH delivers care and health services through 47 hospitals and a network of approximately 60,000 associates, including 3,000 providers. BSMH is one of the largest health systems in the United States and the largest not-for-profit private healthcare provider in Ireland. Its diverse portfolio of companies includes advisory and technology-enabled solutions that strengthen clinical quality, operations, data capabilities and financial performance. Rooted in the compassionate ministry of Jesus, BSMH is committed to improving health and well-being and bringing good help to those most in need, especially people who are poor, dying and underserved. Through community investment, access initiatives and efforts to address social drivers of health, the ministry extends its impact beyond its facilities. Through Global Ministries, BSMH also partners locally to support underserved communities in Haiti, Peru, South Sudan and the Philippines, strengthening health, resilience and opportunity. For more information, visit bsmhealth.org and follow Bon Secours Mercy Health on social media.
