Tobacco Treatment Tools and Workflows

Extensive evidence supports the effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions, and guidelines and decision aids have been developed to guide treatment (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016; Fiore et al., 2008; Leone et al., 2020), including in cancer care (National Comprehensive Cancer Network, 2022; login required).

Whether the care is delivered remotely, in the clinic, or in the hospital, evidence-based tobacco treatment goes beyond simple advice and patient education. An evidence-based tobacco treatment program includes a minimum of brief counseling (face-to-face or remote, individual or group) and pharmacotherapy.

Treatment extenders such as state tobacco quitlines, the SmokefreeTXT texting program (National Cancer Institute; www.smokefree.gov), and interactive voice response (IVR) systems are also evidence-based and can provide psychosocial support in settings with limited resources.

Keep in mind:

• Adapt workflows, EHR tools, and materials to match your setting as you design your tobacco treatment program. Such adaptation can enhance the impact and sustainment of your program.
• Various members of care teams can play important roles in tobacco treatment. Addressing tobacco use is a shared responsibility.
• Some patient populations may face systemic barriers to accessing or engaging in a tobacco treatment program. Visit the Health Equity module for more about designing your program to address health equity.

Practical Guides to Developing EHR Tools for Tobacco Treatment in Oncology

These practical guides provide comprehensive information to help you adapt existing EHR tools to support your tobacco treatment services. 

• C3I general guide to Using the EHR to Support Tobacco Treatment in Oncology (not specific to a particular EHR vendor)
  • Cerner-specific guide
  • Epic-specific guide
• CDC Million Hearts Change Package