Southcentral Foundation tobacco cessation initiative.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the development of a comprehensive tobacco cessation program for Alaska Native and American Indian patients in a primary care setting utilizing current evidence-based guidelines.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team was assembled with representation from various departments including customers of the health care system to develop the tobacco cessation program. Feedback and guidance from the team were implemented and quit rates were calculated.

RESULTS

In April 2005 the point prevalence of quitting among the 322 patients enrolled in the tobacco cessation program for 6 months was 21.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

Recognized clinical interventions that reduce tobacco use were effective in reducing tobacco use among the Alaska Native and American Indian patients enrolled in the tobacco cessation program. Initial results with respect to the quit rate and tobacco use screening rate provide a baseline for future work.