Be a quitter: Medicaid now covers tobacco cessation in NJ

Legislation sponsored by state Sen. Shirley Turner, D-15th District, that expands Medicaid coverage to include comprehensive tobacco cessation benefits, was signed into law on Tuesday.
The law takes effect immediately.
“Medicaid and NJ FamilyCare recipients are more than twice as likely to smoke compared to individuals with private insurance,” said Turner. “This is costly not only for the smokers but also for the state, due to the endless health conditions that often go along with tobacco use. Expanding Medicaid to cover tobacco cessation will not only save money, but it also has the potential to save lives and ultimately create a healthier New Jersey.”
The law expands the state Medicaid program to include tobacco cessation treatment such as brief and high-intensity individual and group counseling, as well as telemedicine. It will also cover all medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for tobacco cessation.
When Massachusetts implemented a similar program in 2006, it saw a 10 percent decrease in the smoking rate. Every dollar spent on the program resulted in $3.12 in savings for cardiovascular conditions alone.
Information regarding the availability of tobacco cessation products and services will be provided to all eligible individuals.

CREDIT: Anthony Vecchione