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An evidence-based interactive computer program to assist physicians in counseling smokers to quit
C N Sciamanna1, D E Ford, J A Flynn
1Center for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.
M.D. Computing : Computers in Medical Practice
|November 26, 1999
Summary
Computerized expert systems can improve physician counseling for smokers quitting cigarettes. These systems provide physicians and patients with data-driven reports to enhance smoking cessation support.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Public Health
- Behavioral Medicine
Background:
- Physician counseling is crucial for smoking cessation.
- Current methods may lack efficiency and frequency.
- Standardized guidelines exist for effective smoking cessation interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a computerized expert system designed to support physician smoking cessation counseling.
- To assess the system's ability to collect and present relevant patient data.
- To determine the utility of physician and patient reports generated by the system.
Main Methods:
- Development of a computerized expert system to collect patient information prior to physician visits.
- System generates two reports: one for physician guidance during counseling, one for patient reinforcement.
- Pilot data collected from volunteers and primary care patients.
Main Results:
- The system effectively collects patient data pertinent to smoking cessation guidelines.
- Generated reports provide useful information for both physicians and patients.
- Pilot data suggests feasibility and potential for improving counseling sessions.
Conclusions:
- Computerized expert systems can enhance the frequency and efficiency of physician-led smoking cessation counseling.
- The developed system offers a practical tool to support evidence-based smoking cessation interventions.
- Further research with larger patient populations is warranted to confirm efficacy.