Counseling patients to quit smoking. What to say, when to say it, and how to use your time to advantage

Helping patients stop smoking is one of the most important--and frustrating--services primary care physicians can provide. Many physicians are reluctant to spend time talking about tobacco use with patients who show little or no interest in changing their habits. Fortunately, specific technique have been identified that can make the task easier. This article from the distinguished Nicotine Dependence Center of the Mayo Clinic looks at the "best practices" for dealing with nicotine dependence.