Physician-delivered smoking intervention

More Oklahomans smoke than the national average. Oklahoma ranks among the top 15 states for its smoking-attributable mortality rate and lung cancer death rate. Although physicians are strategically placed to influence smokers, most physicians fail to effectively promote smoking cessation. By developing the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes, the physician may successfully deliver smoking intervention within the context of routine office visits. The physician must identify all smokers and deliver a consistent unambiguous quit smoking message at every visit. Establishing the patient's readiness for change focuses the physician's efforts at the patient's specific stage of cessation which enhances likelihood of success and reduces physician frustration. For patients ready to quit, visits may be scheduled for evaluation, quitting, and maintenance. Utilizing these cost-effective office based strategies, a physician may realistically achieve a 15% to 25% success rate in smoking cessation.