Prevention Manager Lani Callison talks about how 2 SUD treatment providers are implementing small steps to reduce tobacco use with their clients. Coalition members share some of their “small wins” with the group.

In this coalition meeting, we review the NC Medicaid Tobacco-free requirement currently scheduled to go into effect on July 1, 2025, including the research to support this change as well as resources to support Medicaid health providers who are going tobacco-free.

Pharmacy specialist presents current NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) protocol, Medicaid coverage of NRT, billing and reimbursement for pharmacists, and NRT copay removal.

Tobacco Treatment Specialist reviews the Standard of Care for Tobacco Use Treatment and presents the efficacy and clinical guidelines for medicaitons to support tobacco use cessation.

Youth Tobacco Treatment Coordinator, Nnenne Asi delves into the vaping and e-cigarette market and talks about e-cigarette use negatively impacts physical and mental health. 

Communcations experts present strategies and ideas for communicating a tobacco-free policy before, during, and after implementation.

Dr. Corey Richardson and Rebecca Collins of Integrated Care of Greater Hickory share their doubts about whether their organization could become tobacco-free to now helpiong clients quit and having a successful policy. Learn how they built support among clients and staff and promoted policy adherence in a positive way. 

Joyce Swetlick of NC Tobacco Prevention & Control Branch speaks on QuitlineNC & Live Vape Free- free resources to help your clients quit, and get nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). Brenda Vass, CEO of NC MedAssist on how they help substance use treatment agencies and community members with NRT. Cynthia Barrett of Anuvia- on their programming, and how they provide NRT, and maintain a tobacco-free campus.