Stop smoking program

One of the most unique aspects of the Penn Lung Center is the leadership role we have taken in elevating the sophistication of smoking cessation in health care. We acknowledge the complex nature of nicotine addiction and approach tobacco use as a disorder that crosses many disciplines of science. 

Caring for smokers requires a basic understanding of relevant principles of neuroscience, psychology, social science and medicine. The staff at the Comprehensive Smoking Treatment Program consists of health care professionals from several areas of medicine, including pulmonary medicine, public health, and social work — all of whom are highly experienced leaders in the field of smoking cessation. 

Along with our expertise in the treatment of tobacco dependence, we share a common philosophy: 

Smokers deserve treatment that is supportive, without guilt or pressure. 

It is not uncommon for patients to feel frustrated by their unique experience with quitting. We maintain a positive, supportive environment that does not rely on fear or shame to motivate smokers to quit. 

Penn Medicine’s Smoking Treatment Program has worked to shift the prevailing philosophy of cessation away from guilt, shame, and fear and towards advocacy on behalf of the smoker. Our “pro-smoker” philosophy is not an expression of the right to smoke, but an expression of our commitment to serve by relieving the burden of nicotine addiction. Our staff members integrate this philosophy into all our pursuits, from individualized patient care to public health. 

Penn Medicine’s Smoking Treatment Program is committed to a personalized approach to tobacco use treatment, working to find creative solutions to difficult obstacles facing smokers. The Comprehensive Smoking Treatment Program is dedicated to changing the approach to tobacco use treatment in health care. 

Our goals include: 

• Promotion of evidence-based practice in a supportive and empathetic environment. 
• Dissemination of current scientific knowledge about nicotine dependence and smoking cessation to patients and providers. 
• Participation in tobacco-related research activities. 
• Improvement in public health by working with policy makers, providers, payers, and health systems on tobacco related issues. 

Quitting is scary. Many people build up various fears and worries about what will happen when they stop smoking. Fear is common and it can be limiting during the quitting process. Being informed and prepared will help you manage these concerns. Knowing the truth about some of the most common misconceptions is the first step on the path to quitting comfortably.

• We won’t make you feel ashamed about smoking.
• We won’t frighten you into quitting.
• We won’t rely on gimmicks for treatment.
• We do not expect you to quit smoking at your first visit.

Your care team will collaborate with you every step of the way, to find the right combination of treatments to empower you to quit safely and comfortably.