Development of a Smoking Cessation Algorithm for Primary Care Providers

The primary care setting is an ideal location to promote smoking cessation through counseling and pharmacological aids. Effective smoking cessation options should be offered by primary care providers (PCPs) at each office visit. Smokers report receptiveness to smoking cessation advice given by PCPs. The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends asking about tobacco use in all adults. Counseling using the 5-A model can be performed during a visit. This article discusses development of an evidence-based algorithm using the 5-A model to help PCPs implement a smoking cessation protocol.