An Interdisciplinary Response to a Tobacco Cessation Case Vignette

Abstract

Introduction:Tobacco use is a chronic, relapsing condition. While there are proven cessation medications and counselling treatments, uptake of available aids is poor and smokers often do not have access to evidence-based services.Aims:The Association for the Treatment of Tobacco Use and Dependence (ATTUD) is an organisation of tobacco treatment specialists (TTSs) representing a wide array of disciplines and healthcare settings. This case vignette was intended to provide a clinical example of an interdisciplinary approach to tobacco use treatment.Methods:ATTUD Interdisciplinary Committee members representing tobacco-cessation experts from five professions were asked to respond to the same composite case vignette detailing key areas of clinical consideration and treatment.Results/Findings:While there were common treatment themes across professions, each provider also offered a unique treatment perspective addressing different facets of the patient's complex care needs, including attention to other chronic illnesses, mental illnesses, and preventive services. Expert responses highlighted that different treatment approaches across a continuum of healthcare settings are complementary.Conclusions:Responses to this vignette support the need to address tobacco use from an interdisciplinary approach. Existing chronic care and patient-centred models should be utilised to ensure that tobacco users receive a sufficient range of cessation services.