Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #115199

Constance Weare, MSW, CISW, Maricopa County Tobacco Use Prevention Program, 3838 N. Central, Suite 1600, Phoenix, AZ 85012, 602-372-8423, connieweare@mail.maricopa.gov

Problem/Objective: Employees that use tobacco miss more workdays and have higher health costs than employees that do not use tobacco. Employers pay for employees' health insurance and therefore, have a stake in reducing tobacco use. Method: Maricopa County, a major employer in the Phoenix Metropolitan area, employs over 16,000 employees and is a self-insured pharmaceutical provider. In partnership with Maricopa County Tobacco Use Prevention Program, the County agreed to offer 12 weeks of nicotine replacement or three months of Zyban free of charge to all covered employees or dependents attending the cessation program. Prior to attendance clients were assessed to determine motivation, dependence, leisure activity, stress, and social/environmental support. Individual quit plans were developed and reviewed with clients. Curriculum included relaxation training, stress management, exercise, nutrition, and social support. Open enrollment and lunch-time classes at the worksite assisted convenience for attendance. Results: Quit rates of participants completing the 12-week course are 100% at the last class. Follow-up to determine long range quit rates are currently being conducted and results will be reported at the session. Conclusion: Employers who self-insure have the opportunity to partner with cessation programs to design more intensive and effective programs. Provided at the worksite employees and employers will benefit. Funded by Arizona Department of Health Services.

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will explain the need for employer support for tobacco control in the worksite, understand the process that secured this program and learn about the components of an innovative worksite cessation program including free NRT and after-care.

Keywords: Tobacco, Treatment

Related Web page: www.mactupp.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.