What is the HEDIS measure related to smoking cessation?

The Tobacco Use Screening and Cessation Intervention measure focuses on two critical aspects of tobacco use: screening individuals for tobacco use and providing effective interventions for cessation. This measure emphasizes the importance of identifying patients who use tobacco and ensuring they receive appropriate counseling and resources to help them quit.

In healthcare settings, screening patients for tobacco use is vital for understanding their health risks, as tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable disease and death. Once individuals are identified as smokers, the measure promotes evidence-based cessation interventions, such as counseling and pharmacotherapy options, to assist them in their efforts to quit smoking.

This comprehensive approach aligns with HEDIS's goals of improving healthcare quality and patient outcomes. By focusing on both screening and intervention, the measure effectively addresses the dual need for identifying tobacco users and supporting them in cessation activities, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes.