This study assesses the impact of HIP-New York’s Fit and Free Smoking Cessation Program (FFSCP). The FFSCP offers two options: 1) an eight session, seven week group module, or 2) a self-help module including a ‘Smoking Cessation Kit’ and three telephone support calls. The sample consisted of program participants enrolled in a group-model HMO who registered for either the Group or Self-help modules in 1997 or 1998. Both modules offer the optional subsidized use of pharmacological agents. Baseline smoking status was obtained immediately subsequent to program completion. One-year smoke-free status was assessed via telephone interview. Results indicate that 20.4% of registrants completed the program and reported being smoke-free. Self-help program ‘completers’ had a slightly higher smoke-free rate at baseline than Group ‘completers’. Of program ‘completers’ smoke-free at baseline, approximately one-third (31.0%) were still smoke-free after one year. One-year quit rates were nearly identical for Group and Self-help enrollees. Self-help participants were more likely than Group participants to use and successfully complete the program with the aid of pharmacological agents. Results suggest that the post-completion success rates of well-managed self-help smoking cessation programs including telephone support and pharmacotherapy can approach post-completion success rates of group programs after one year. Further investigation will be required to ascertain whether self-help programs can demonstrate comparable longer term success as well.
Learning Objectives: 1. To compare one year smoking quit rates of a group vs. self-help smoking cessation program in a managed care context 2.To evaluate the relative contribution of pharmacological agents in the self-help component of the program
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of HIP Health Plan of New York