Smoking programme encourages input from GPs

A programme to encourage people to quit smoking is to be rolled out across the country and works by requiring GPs to manage their patients.

In 2007, the project was pioneered in Yorkshire and Humberside, with a pilot scheme in Rotherham highlighting its success.

The new approach increased the number of nicotine addicts being referred to local NHS Stop Smoking centres by up to 49 per cent.

Under the programme, the public is offered a supportive environment that tries to make cutting out cigarettes routine.

Paul Aveyard, senior lecturer from Birmingham University’s primary care and general practice department, explained the scheme offers patients three levels of intervention, varying from intensive periods to 30-second advice sessions.

He said: “Previously, the primary care system encouraged GPs to give their patients advice in terms of stop smoking.

“The difference here is that GPs will now be required to actively manage their patients – such as referring them to a specialist stop smoking service.”

Earlier this year a campaign was launched to drive home the message to smokers that their loved ones are worried and distressed about their tobacco habit.