SmokeStop -- DHB and PHO information

To all DHBs and PHOs

Dear Colleagues

NEWSFLASH
A smoker can now self refer and anyone can make a referral from the home page by clicking the Get Started button.

Following a successful national pilot smokestop remains free.

smokestop is an internet smoking cessation programme suitable for patients who like using the web, SMS text messaging, email, bulletin board and chat. The pilot demonstrated that smokestop supports practitioners to provide a Brief Advice to a smoker to quit.

Background
smokestop is suitable for patients who like using the internet, text messaging, email, bulletin board and chat. They will require basic internet and cell phone experience. It has been shown to be a cost effective cessation option (CTRU study 2006, carbon monoxide verified, with 74% smoker endorsement). Many smokers are unwilling to use other traditional services. With the growing use of internet and mobile phones it is timely to be using technology to assist people to make positive lifestyle changes.

smokestop was developed by Dr Andrew Lawson, FRNZCGP and Denise Barlow, Quit Specialist, National Heart Foundation. Designed to provide an easy referral option, it is based on NZ guidelines and uses a patient centred approach.

Research indicates that smoking should be viewed as a chronic disease consisting of multiple quit and relapse cycles, where a priority of cessation initiatives should be to increase the number of quit attempts. The recommendation of a GP or PN can be significantly influential in prompting smokers' quit attempts.

How can you be involved?
Please advise your members about smokestop through your usual networks, cell groups, websites and other communications.

A smoker can now self refer and anyone can make a referral from the home page by clicking the Get Started button.

A short powerpoint presentation is available for use in your cell groups. If you would like a copy of this or have other queries please email us here.

Thanks in advance for your active participation in this opportunity for the many smokers who want to quit and realise the benefits to their health, relationships and the community.

Regards

Dr A Lawson MBChB DipObs FRNZCGP