Reducing Health Costs in Vermont Through Comprehensive Cessation Coverage and Support

Tobacco use is a leading cause of death in Vermont — one of three risk factors that contribute to the most prevalent chronic diseases in the state, resulting in significant morbidity, mortality, and health care costs.

In addition to the direct and indirect costs of smoking to individuals, tobacco use exacts cost on the health care system, including hospitals and health insurers. To overcome this, Vermont must direct resources to support health promotion strategies to improve health outcomes and reduce costs to the health care system. The Vermont Tobacco Control Program (VTCP), in partnership with John Snow Research & Training, provides evidence-based guidance on how to make cessation programs effective by analyzing data to track cessation use and health outcomes via an initiative called 802Quits. JSI, 2015