The role of health care systems in increased tobacco cessation

Abstract

Health care delivery systems are critical components of tobacco cessation efforts. This review summarizes recent evidence in support of the health care system recommendations in the 2000 U.S. Public Health Service Clinical Practice Guideline, Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence. Measurable progress in addressing tobacco use through the health care system is summarized, including accountabilities for addressing tobacco in national health care reporting systems, increases in reported advice to quit smoking from health care providers, and wider availability of insurance coverage for tobacco cessation treatments. Despite progress, significant gaps remain between what is possible and what is done by health care systems to impact tobacco cessation. A four-point public policy agenda is outlined to help close these gaps.