Systems Change

In order to develop a comprehensive approach for tobacco cessation, you will need to look at the entire process of patient interactions. Many of the steps in tobacco cessation can be embedded in the EMR and performed by anyone in a white coat. This will optimize use of physician time. The best single source of information is the Million Hearts Tobacco Cessation Change Package, available here

Overcoming Barriers

The barriers to implementing effective tobacco cessation programs include low reimbursement, lack of training, lack of time, and the perception that interventions have a low likelihood of success. All of these issues, except reimbursement are addressed in the Million Hearts Tobacco Cessation Change Package.

Well-designed tobacco cessation programs can be a profit center, regardless of payment model. You are invited to do the math on your medical group on the Reimbursement page

Additional Resources

Billing Guide for Tobacco Screening and Cessation from the American Lung Association

Billing Guide Addendum for Behavioral Health from the American Lung Association

The EMR setup is essential for effective treatment of tobacco, but there is no national standard. Advice from the American Lung Association is available here and here.

The American Lung Association has assembled additional resources to support clinicians and health systems in training staff and organizing systems in support of tobacco cessation services, available here