PURPOSE: To test whether a mailing describing new coverage for smoking cessation medications increases benefit knowledge, utilization, and quitting. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial assigned participants to benefit communication via (1) standard contract changes or (2) enhanced communication with direct-to-member postcards. A sample of 1930 self-identified smokers from two Minnesota health plans took surveys before and 1 year after the benefit's introduction. The follow-up response rate was 80%. A multilevel logistic estimator tested for differences in benefit knowledge and smoking behavior from baseline. RESULTS: More enhanced than standard communication respondents knew about the benefit (39.0% vs. 22.2%, p < .0001) at follow-up. Groups did not differ on bupropion utilization (24.6% vs. 23.1%, p = .92); nicotine replacement therapy utilization (26.9% vs. 25.9%, p = .26), or cessation (12.8% vs. 15.6%, p = .32). CONCLUSION: Although limited by the low intervention intensity and potential social desirability bias, information about new coverage alone does not appear to increase quitting behaviors.
RCT Entities:
PURPOSE: To test whether a mailing describing new coverage for smoking cessation medications increases benefit knowledge, utilization, and quitting. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial assigned participants to benefit communication via (1) standard contract changes or (2) enhanced communication with direct-to-member postcards. A sample of 1930 self-identified smokers from two Minnesota health plans took surveys before and 1 year after the benefit's introduction. The follow-up response rate was 80%. A multilevel logistic estimator tested for differences in benefit knowledge and smoking behavior from baseline. RESULTS: More enhanced than standard communication respondents knew about the benefit (39.0% vs. 22.2%, p < .0001) at follow-up. Groups did not differ on bupropion utilization (24.6% vs. 23.1%, p = .92); nicotine replacement therapy utilization (26.9% vs. 25.9%, p = .26), or cessation (12.8% vs. 15.6%, p = .32). CONCLUSION: Although limited by the low intervention intensity and potential social desirability bias, information about new coverage alone does not appear to increase quitting behaviors.