Professor Robert West Professor of Health Psychology and Director of Tobacco Studies, Cancer Research UK Health Behaviour Research Centre, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London
Abstract
Ever since the inception of the stop-smoking services in the UK, there has been pressure to maximise the numbers of smokers treated and minimise the cost per smoker. This approach has led to a substantial public health impact, but also considerable wasted resources, poor quality care given to smokers who are not strongly motivated to quit, and unnecessary loss of life among highly motivated smokers who have not been able to access optimum support. We need to rethink our model of care. And for that we need answers to a few key questions: What is the best we can do for a smoker who is willing to engage with as much stop-smoking support as is needed? How much will this cost? Will it be worth it? And what can be done to help other smokers?
This talk will re-present the model of care that was originally proposed for the English stop-smoking services based on the principle that smokers’ access to optimum stop-smoking support is dictated only by their desire to quit.
Source of funding: Cancer Research UK
Declaration of interest: I undertake research and consultancy for companies that develop and manufacture stop-smoking medications. My salary is funded by Cancer Research UK. I am an honorary advisor to the NCSCT.
