TCS has two main missions.

1) We provide complete and easy accessible quit smoking/spit tobacco programs for all UMHS employees, patients, and community members. To meet this goal TCS offers the following programs either free of charge or for a small fee:

a) Quit Tobacco Groups:These groups meet for eight times in seven weeks, for ninety-minute each meeting. The first three weeks are spent preparing to quit. The fourth week is "quit" night and with an other meeting 48 hours later. The last three weeks are spent "learning to be a nonsmoker" and developing relapse prevention strategies.
b) Individual Counseling Program: Individuals may meet with a quit smoking counselor for up to five, fifty-minute sessions. This program provides similar elements as the groups but fits to the individual's schedule and needs.
c) Reunion groups: Once a month, there is an open group program to provide support for anyone who has been in any TCS program.
d) Inpatient Program: Every patient admitted to the hospital are asked their tobacco use status. Patients who identify themselves as tobacco users receive a bed-side visit within 24 hours of admission by a counselor. Plans are discussed to help our patients remain as comfortable as possible while in our smoke-free environment. Patients are also asked about their readiness to quit tobacco. Individuals who say they are ready to quit are provided quit tobacco help, quit smoking aids, and referrals.

2) Provide assistance as needed to put into action and maintain a smoke-free environment. This includes:

a) Representation the Smoke-free Task Force.
b) Presentations on tobacco cessation to different groups within and without the Health System.
c) Assistance in developing the Tobacco Cessation guidelines.
d) Policy development.
e) Strategies and training for clinicians on how to work with patients and tobacco cessation.