Influencing Readiness and Intentions to Offer Tobacco Dependence Treatment Through Training: King Hussein Cancer Center and Global Bridges Promoting an Underutilised Specialty in the Eastern Mediterranean Region

Abstract

Introduction: Although tobacco dependence treatment (TDT) is key to tobacco control, there continues to be a shortage of services in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Barriers to offering services include the lack of training and education.Aims: To create a network of healthcare providers (HCPs) capable of advancing TDT, King Hussein Cancer Center – the regional host for Global Bridges in the EMR – developed, implemented, and evaluated a regional TDT training programme.Methods: The programme employed a predisposing–enabling–reinforcing framework, and utilised a combination of learning techniques. The evidence-informed curriculum aimed to influence knowledge, confidence, and competence, and the evaluation mechanism was aligned with these aims.Results and discussion: Training produced a 37% and 23% gain in knowledge and TDT-specific competencies, respectively. The majority of participants reported that the workshops enhanced confidence, and 72% reported intentions for positive change. Participants rated the workshops highly, and anticipated value from joining Global Bridges network. Immediate outcomes indicate success in advancing participants’ self-efficacy and readiness to treat. Intentions for positive change may potentially be the first step in modifying practice.Conclusion: Capacity building in TDT could be the first step in meeting the need for trained HCPs through positively influencing knowledge, confidence, competence, and intentions.