Comprehensive Coverage of Tobacco Cessation Medications Decreases Smoking and Hospitalizations

December, 2010

A recent study found that full coverage of smoking cessation medications through state Medicaid programs can have a sizable impact on the health and smoking status of recipients. During the 2.5 year period following the adoption of comprehensive coverage in one state Medicaid program, 40% of enrolled smokers utilized the medications, 10% quit smoking, and the number of heart-attack and coronary heart disease-related hospitalizations among recipients decreased by 46% and 49%, respectively.