Smoking Cessation Tool for Primary Care Providers

Approximately 18% of adults in the United States are cigarette smokers. Cigarette smoking causes a multitude of health problems, including diseases and death. While primary care providers reside in an ideal position to aid their patients in smoking cessation efforts, many providers are concerned about their own lack of resources and uncertain of their ability to assist patients who smoke. Common provider concerns include: guaranteed services reimbursement, a lack of clear direction for how to properly communicate, and follow-up with patients. After a review of smoking cessation research, assistance tools, and recommendations, we have compiled a recommended curriculum for primary care providers to use in their clinical settings for helping their patients achieve abstinence from smoking.