More help and support will soon be available for older smokers who would like to quit.
Medicare will now cover the cost of smoking cessation counseling for seniors, even if they are not ill. The Aug. 25 decision recognized the high cost of smoking to the U.S. economy, and the illness and death that often results from longterm tobacco use.
The decision also recognized that many smokers hope to quit, and that those who receive advice and support are much more likely to accomplish this goal.
We encourage every smoker over 65 to consider this offer. Aside from the well-known risks of lung cancer, cardiovascular disease and COPD, smokers are at higher risk for many other diseases. Smoking is estimated to reduce life expectancy by seven to eight years.
The new coverage for counseling appplies to Medicare Part A and Part B. Medicare already helps pay for prescription drugs for smoking cessation under Part D.
The benefit will cover up to two attempts per year with counseling provided by a physician or other Medicare-recognized practitioner.
Reducing the number of smokers in all age groups is one of the noncontroversial goals of the U.S. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Health care reform at this level is expected to more than pay for itself.
Smoking has steadily declined since cigarettes were first declared to be hazardous to our health. At last count, however, 46 million adult Americans smoke. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, smoking annually costs the U.S. economy $96 billion in indirect medical costs and $97 billion in lost productivity.
The most important anti-smoking goal is to prevent young people from taking up smoking, but those over 65 can benefit from quitting. Breaking the habit can reduce all the risks that come from smoking, and promote a new sense of health and vitality.
— Questions? Comments? Contact Managing Editor Nick Cowenhoven at nickc@journaltribune.com.
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