| Primary Author: | Shelley Karn, EdD |
| Co-Principal Investigators/Collaborators: | Susan Fenton |
| Organization: | University of Texas at Austin |
Healthcare system change is imperative to creating sustainability in the field of tobacco cessation. A statewide consortium has been convened to develop a Tobacco Cessation Change model (TCC). Brief intervention protocols incorporated into electronic health records (EHRs) will help address the missing link to recording tobacco status and offering support services for patients who are willing to quit the use of tobacco.
Abstract
Background
Tobacco is a chronic disease responsible for nearly 1 in 5 preventable deaths in the US amounting to approximately 443,000 deaths annually (National Cancer Institute). Current data suggests 13% of providers refer patients and 17% arrange follow up visits for tobacco cessation, despite knowing that this type of intervention can double the chance of a patient quitting tobacco (Giovino, GA). Additionally, former smokers who are at risk of relapse are neglected, thus missing opportunities to promote effective cessation tools. This project aims to demonstrate a tool to help physicians provide effective patient intervention for tobacco control.
Purpose
EHRs offer a unique opportunity for healthcare systems to reach the recently federally mandated guidelines for tobacco control (Meaningful Use Phase I) by incorporating a comprehensive approach to tobacco cessation.
Materials & Methods
The TCC model includes a template providing primary care clinicians and physicians with tailored brief intervention protocols following the United States (US) Public Health Services guidelines for treating tobacco dependence.
Results
The study will implement a universal template within all healthcare settings integrating standards for Meaningful Use and quality assistance for patients. The evaluation study will include focus groups and aggregate data within two of the largest healthcare systems as well as one rural healthcare system in Texas.
Conclusion
Evaluation findings will be used to determine the effectiveness of the template with an immediate measure of success being increased referrals to the Quit line.
© Improvement Science Research Network, 2011