Related Links

We have culled the Web and our members for some of the most dynamic, timely and relevant resources online related to smoking cessation.

Call to ACTION

Learn about a similar national effort to encourage businesses to adopt smoking cessation programs and benefits through the Partnership for Prevention Web site for the National Working Group for ACTTION (Access to Cessation Treatment of Tobacco in Our Nation).

National Business Group on Health

NBGH offers access to their Purchaser’s Guide for Clinical Preventive Services, including details on smoking cessation coverage.

Preventive Care: A National Profile on Use, Disparities, and Health Benefits

This Partnership for Prevention report—overseen by Texas’ own former Department of State Health Services commissioner Dr. Eduardo Sanchez—offers incredible insight and hard data to support the investment in five key preventive services that would save lives and money.

Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Programs

America’s Health Insurance Plans provides employers with a wealth on online tools and resources related to smoking cessation benefits and programs, including Return on Investment (ROI) and recent research, news articles and presentations about the cost and health benefits of such an investment.

President's Cancer Council Annual Report (2007)

The President's Cancer Council Annual Report looks at the progress in the nation's fight against cancer. This year’s report includes a number of recommendations related to preventive care and wellness, including a call to make smoking cessation treatment a standard health care benefit. Specifically, the council, which includes two Texans (Lance Armstrong and Dr. Margaret Kripke of M.D. Anderson) states, "the U.S. [must] set a standard in developing and implementing exemplary programs and interventions that reduce tobacco use and smoke exposure. To do so, tobacco-prevention programs must receive adequate funding and smoking-cessation services must be better incorporated into standard health care."

CDC recommended guidelines for smoking cessation coverage

According to the CDC, comprehensive smoking cessation coverage programs would include:

  • At least four, 30 minute counseling sessions;
  • Coverage for all FDA-approved prescription treatments and over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapies; and
  • Counseling and medication for at least two smoking cessation attempts per year – all with low or no co-pays or deductibles.
Learn more about the CDC requirements and information on smoking cessation online.