For smokers, hospitalisation is an opportunity for them to embark on their smoking cessation journey. Besides, inpatient smoking cessation programmes have frequently shown positive results. Hence, we partner with hospitals to run the Inpatient Smoking Cessation Programme to assist inpatient smokers in embarking on their smoke-free journey.

Launched since 2007, this programme integrates tobacco cessation interventions into the hospital stay of patients who smoke. From various studies done in Singapore and overseas, we found that inpatient smokers are more receptive to assistance and are more likely to kick-start their smoke-free journey. Making such programmes available in an inpatient setting will likely contribute to improved health and reduced healthcare costs from tobacco-related illnesses¹.

How this programme works

• On admission into a participating hospital, smokers are identified and provided with brief counselling sessions. These sessions inform smokers of the various harmful effects of smoking and encourage them to take up a session of intensive counselling during their hospital stay.

• During the intensive counselling session, a trained counsellor provides smokers with more comprehensive tips and strategies that they can adopt in their quit journey. They will also advice smokers on the use of Nicotine Replacement Therapy.

• The hospital then follows up on the smoking status of the patients after they are discharged.