Smoking cessation counseling - A practice management perspective

Individuals continue to smoke despite its numerous proven adverse health effects. Now viewed as a chronic medical condition, health-care professionals are more involved in cessation efforts. Physicians are often the first line of defense, providing intervention through prescription management and counseling. Some insurers recognize these efforts as health promoting and cost saving, revising policies to include reimbursement. This article addresses the most recent smoking cessation policy revision implemented by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.