In May 2026, NACDD released two new Competency documents designed to strengthen the capacity of state and territorial tobacco control programs to advance evidence-based tobacco cessation strategies. The Health Systems Change Competencies and Insurance Coverage Competencies offer practical guidance to support program planning, partnership development, and implementation across two foundational domains for increasing access to and use of cessation services.
Developed in collaboration with state and national tobacco control partners, these documents were distributed directly to state and territorial tobacco control program cessation managers and program managers and also shared widely through national partners to increase awareness and encourage adoption.
Highlights include:
- Competency documents designed specifically for state and territorial tobacco control program staff working to strengthen cessation systems and coverage.
- Defined proficiency levels that support professional development, program planning, and technical assistance.
- Practical skill areas aligned with evidence-based strategies to improve integration of cessation into health care systems and strengthen coverage of cessation treatments.
- Built-in self-assessment tools to help practitioners assess capacity, identify priority areas for growth, and guide action planning.
- Curated tools and resources aligned to each competency area available through NACDD’s Tobacco Control Resource Library available at: https://tobaccoresources.chronicdisease.org
These competencies will also inform the design of future NACDD training and technical assistance, including current Learning Collaboratives focused on Health Systems Change and Insurance Coverage.
Together, these documents establish a shared foundation for building knowledge and skills that support sustainable cessation coverage and systems change. By clearly defining the capabilities needed to advance Health Systems Change and Insurance Coverage strategies, NACDD is supporting state and territorial programs in strengthening cessation infrastructure and expanding access to effective treatment.