Medicaid Smoking Cessation Coverage

Medicaid Smoking Cessation Coverage

http://www.medicaidpatients.com/medicaid-smoking-cessation-coverage/

The National Cancer Institute has reported in 2009 that coverage for tobacco dependence treatments have increased at a steady pace since the mid-1990s for state Medicaid programs. As of 2007, there were 44 states that covered some form of treatment, compared to only 3 in 1995.

This is a significant development, considering the fact that the cigarette smoking rate among adult Medicaid beneficiaries is higher at 37 percent, than the general adult population which is at 21 percent. It is estimated that about one-third of all cancer deaths is caused by smoking. Smoking-related medical costs make up a big chunk of Medicaid spending.