In-practice management versus quitline referral for enhancing smoking cessation in general practice: A cluster randomized trial

Abstract

Background and objective. GPs are an important source of smoking cessation advice. This research examined whether a model encouraging GP referral of patients who smoke to a specialist service would be acceptable and effective for increased smoking cessation when compared with a model of in-practice management. Methods. The study design was cluster randomized controlled trial. Practices were randomized to one of two interventions, at a rate of 1:2: (i) standard in-practice GP management or (ii) referral to a quitline service. The main outcome measures were sustained abstinence of ≥1 month duration at 3-month follow-up and ≥10 months duration at 12 months, using intention to treat analysis. Re..