Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Like many smokers, you may have tried to stop. You are more likely to be able to stop if your doctor talks to you about quitting.
Doctors at highly rated PPOs should be aware that you smoke, tell you about ways to quit, and follow up with you regularly to help you quit smoking.
Talk with your doctor and health plan to find out about what other services are available. Many health plans offer additional support and resources for patients who want to quit smoking. These additional services may be educational materials (online and in print), classes or support groups, medications like nicotine patches, or phone counseling.