Counseling patients to quit smoking - What to say, when to say it, and howto use your time to advantage

Helping patients stop smoking is one of the most important-and frustrating- services primary care physicians can provide. Many physicians are reluctant to spend time talking about tobacco use with patients who show little or n o interest in changing their habits. Fortunately, specific techniques have been identified that can make the task easier. This article from the distin guished Nicotine Dependence Center of the Mayo Clinic looks at the "best pr actices" for dealing with nicotine dependence.