Albert Einstein Medical Center Offers Free Medication to Smokers Who Want to Quit

Philadelphia, PA, December 23, 2003 – Albert Einstein Medical Center is offering free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges to smokers trying to end their relationship with cigarettes. Part of a comprehensive cessation program called Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence, eligible patients will receive free medication and counseling from trained professionals beginning in January 2004.

Funded by a grant from the Einstein Society, the program uses nicotine replacement therapy, including products such as the nicotine patch, nicotine gum or lozenges, to help eliminate the withdrawal symptoms that occur in the early phase of quitting. Patients will also receive comprehensive counseling on changing behaviors and habits that are an important component of the smoking habit.

"Nicotine replacement therapy, such as the nicotine patch or the new nicotine lozenge, more than doubles cessation rates compared to smokers who quit cold-turkey,” said Michael McGuire, PharmD, director, Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence, Albert Einstein Healthcare Network. “But we realize that the high up-front cost of nicotine replacement therapy is one reason why smokers don’t try these products. We want to remove this barrier for our patients.” Products such as the nicotine patch can cost $50 or more for a two-week supply.

In the U.S., smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer and an important risk factor for heart disease. Smoking is also linked to many other diseases, most notably chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, also known as emphysema, poor circulation and stroke. "Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in this country,” said Dr. McGuire. “Yet we have proven therapies that can help smokers quit and live a healthier lifestyle."

Residents of Philadelphia can enroll in the smoking cessation program at Albert Einstein Medical Center by calling Dr. McGuire at 215-456-6487. Free nicotine replacement therapy will be provided to patients in the event their insurance will not cover the products or if they do not currently have any health insurance.

Albert Einstein Healthcare Network, a member of the Jefferson Health System, provides healthcare services through Albert Einstein Medical Center, Germantown Community Health Services, Willow Terrace (a nursing home), MossRehab at Tabor Road, MossRehab at Elkins Park, Willowcrest (a center for subacute care), Belmont Behavioral Health and a number of outpatient and satellite locations. Einstein also operates a primary care network, Einstein Neighborhood Healthcare. For more information, visit www.einstein.edu or call 1-800-EINSTEIN.

Publish date: December 23, 2003