January 9, 2012   A program that helped low-income Massachusetts residents stop smoking saved three dollars for every dollar spent. That’s the conclusion of a study from George Washington University published online today in the journal PLoS One.

“While we have always known that helping people quit smoking is an investment in their health, this study shows that our efforts are also a sound financial investment for the Commonwealth,” said Governor Deval Patrick in a statement. “This represents another positive outcome of health reform in Massachusetts.”

The state’s 2006 health coverage law added a smoking cessation benefit for Medicaid and let members chose from any FDA approved option.  The state promoted the program on the radio and in bus ads. George Washington University researchers found that members who quit saved three times the cost of the program in fewer heart-related hospitalizations after just over one year.

For More Information:
http://commonhealth.wbur.org/2012/01/smoking-cessation/