NACDD received CDC continuation funding for tobacco cooperative agreements focused on Building Capacity to Increase Commercial Tobacco Cessation. This funding allows NACDD to continue supporting state and territory capacity building for evidence-based cessation strategies. During the past year of funding, NACDD convened Cessation Engagement and Learning Labs for Tobacco Control Program staff on various topics, including the integration of cessation into chronic disease programs. NACDD also launched an inaugural Mini-Learning Series to provide new Tobacco Cessation Managers with foundational training in health systems change and insurance coverage. Participants reported knowledge gains, increased confidence, and plans to immediately apply strategies in their states.
The two-part Mini-Learning Series was designed to serve as an essential orientation for new Tobacco Cessation Managers in state and territory Tobacco Control Programs across the country. Recognizing that effective leadership in tobacco cessation programs is essential to improving public health outcomes, these sessions offered a foundational introduction to the core elements of tobacco cessation program management and implementation. They used interactive formats to build a strong base in two areas critical for program success: Health Systems Change and Insurance Coverage.
Highlights included:
- 51 total attendees across both sessions.
- 73% of participants in the Health Systems session reported knowledge gains, particularly related to integrating cessation into clinical workflows and using data to drive outcomes.
- 80% of participants in the Insurance Coverage session identified potential actions they would take as a result of the session, which strengthened their understanding of policy landscapes, coverage barriers, and related improvement strategies.
- Participants across both sessions gained actionable tools and insights to enhance the success of their programs.
The first session, Health Systems Change, brought together 33 participants to explore how tobacco cessation can be embedded into routine care. They learned about evidence-based guidelines, practical ways to integrate interventions into electronic health records, and the role of data in driving better outcomes. Attendees left with concrete strategies for working with health systems and partnerships to expand reach. Survey results showed that nearly three-quarters of respondents increased their familiarity with key concepts, particularly around using data and integrating cessation into clinical workflows. The session received an enthusiastic rating for likelihood to recommend to colleagues.
The second session, Insurance Coverage, drew 18 participants for a deep dive into the policy landscape shaping access to cessation services. Presentations covered the building blocks of comprehensive coverage, common barriers to access, and strategies to strengthen coverage within state programs. A case study offered real-world insights on assessing cessation coverage in health plans. Participants valued the session as a strong refresher and foundation, highlighting its usefulness for framing state-level discussions and sharing insights with colleagues. The session earned an above average rating for likelihood to recommend.
Together, the series focused on building the capacity of new leaders, ensuring they are prepared to advance effective cessation strategies in their states. The evaluations confirmed that participants gained practical knowledge, identified actionable next steps, and left better equipped to strengthen cessation access in their states. By investing in orientation and skill-building early, NACDD is ensuring that state programs are prepared to take immediate action to advance evidence-based approaches that reduce commercial tobacco use and improve chronic disease health outcomes nationwide.