Interventional Pulmonology at Atlantic Health, Where Precision Diagnostics Meets Patient-Centered Care

At Morristown and Overlook Medical Centers, robotic bronchoscopy and multidisciplinary collaboration are redefining what’s possible for patients with suspected lung cancer.

The Interventional Pulmonology program at Atlantic Health is helping reshape how lung nodules and other thoracic abnormalities are diagnosed and managed. By integrating advanced technologies such as robotic bronchoscopy and a streamlined multidisciplinary care model, Atlantic Health provides patients with faster, safer, and more definitive answers when it matters most.

The program’s reach and capabilities have expanded significantly in recent years, operating across Morristown and Overlook Medical Centers. Under the guidance of interventional pulmonologists like Dr. Bhavi Patel, the team delivers high-precision diagnostics with a personalized approach that eases anxiety and accelerates care.

A Modern Approach to a Growing Need

Lung nodules are common imaging findings that often concern patients and providers. Determining which nodules warrant surveillance, biopsy, or surgical intervention can be complex. Traditionally, diagnosis has involved limited bronchoscopic access to peripheral lesions or required more invasive surgical techniques.

The interventional pulmonology team at Atlantic Health offers a better path forward. Combining advanced tools with clinical expertise enables a faster transition from incidental findings to diagnosis, reducing patient burden.

“Interventional pulmonology has created a bridge between imaging and treatment planning,” said Dr. Patel. “Our goal is to close the gap between detection and action, using the least invasive approach available.”

Robotic Bronchoscopy: Precision That Changes the Patient Journey

One of the program's most impactful additions has been the implementation of robotic bronchoscopy. This technology allows pulmonologists to access and biopsy nodules smaller than two centimeters in the outer regions of the lungs, areas traditionally out of reach for standard bronchoscopic techniques.

The robotic system provides high accuracy and control by using pre-procedural CT scans and real-time 3D navigation. This translates to improved diagnostic yield, shorter care timelines, and fewer repeat procedures.

“Robotic bronchoscopy has been a game-changer,” said Dr. Patel. “We can now perform tissue sampling on small, peripheral nodules that would have previously required surgical intervention or prolonged observation.”

“In one recent case, a patient was referred after a cardiac scan revealed a small pulmonary nodule,” Dr. Patel continued. “She was understandably anxious and worried about what it could mean and what might come next. With robotic bronchoscopy, we were able to give her a diagnosis quickly. Instead of weeks of waiting and uncertainty, she had answers and a clear plan.”

Collaborative Care That Moves at the Speed of Patients

The success of the Interventional Pulmonology program is rooted in a team-based approach that brings together specialists from pulmonology, thoracic surgery, oncology, radiation oncology, and pathology. This level of collaboration allows Atlantic Health to move quickly and confidently when evaluating potential malignancies.

Multidisciplinary tumor boards and shared imaging reviews allow care teams to align on strategy, staging, and treatment planning. Diagnostic and procedural decisions are made efficiently, with patient-centered goals guiding each step.

“We have the infrastructure and culture in place to make coordinated care the standard, not the exception,” Dr. Patel said. This includes a commitment to collaboration and consistent communication with referring providers. “I'm always available to discuss the case.”

More Than Diagnosis: Supporting the Whole Patient

Lung nodules are not just clinical findings—they often come with significant emotional weight. Patients may arrive overwhelmed or anxious, having never faced a serious medical issue before. Atlantic Health’s interventional pulmonologists take a hands-on, consultative approach to help patients understand what their imaging shows, what it could mean, and what comes next.

This transparency and support help alleviate fear while guiding patients toward the best course of action. Whether the recommendation is continued imaging surveillance or a biopsy, the process is clearly communicated, with procedural coordination handled by a dedicated team.

“Patients need both clarity and compassion,” said Dr. Patel. “When a patient is notified of an abnormal finding, it can be very distressing. We focus on making them feel comfortable that we will have a plan for whatever that finding is.”

 

Referral Guidelines and Access Points

The Interventional Pulmonology team encourages referrals for patients with findings such as pulmonary nodules, masses, unexplained pleural effusions, or airway abnormalities. Providers are welcome to consult with the team even if the next step is unclear. Imaging reviews, diagnostic planning, and procedural guidance are available in both inpatient and outpatient settings. 

Dr. Patel stated, "When a provider sees an abnormal CT scan, like a lung nodule or mass, and a minimally invasive procedure might help, that’s the right time to contact Interventional Pulmonology."

Clear, consistent communication with referring providers is a priority for Dr. Patel’s team of schedulers, who work across service lines to identify the best next steps. Patients remain under the care of their referring provider, and our team works closely to ensure seamless handoff and continuity once diagnostic or procedural needs are met.

Referrals can be coordinated through either Morristown or Overlook Medical Center locations. Both sites offer robotic bronchoscopy, pleural procedures, and navigational biopsy capabilities.

A Vision for the Future

As the need for advanced pulmonary diagnostics grows, Atlantic Health remains committed to leading innovation in this space. The Interventional Pulmonology program continues to expand access to new technologies and techniques, including cryobiopsy and therapeutic bronchoscopy. The program’s focus on access, speed, and accuracy aligns with national standards and is raising the bar for community-based thoracic care.

“The ability to deliver academic-level diagnostics in a community setting is at the heart of what we do,” Dr. Patel said. “We’re helping patients get life-changing answers quickly, often with fewer procedures.”