J Telemed Telecare. 2021 Sep 15;1357633X211034734. doi: 10.1177/1357633X211034734. Epub 2021 Sep 15.

Exploring the role of telehealth: A novel approach to group-based smoking cessation treatment for men incarcerated in a rural state prison.

Journal of telemedicine and telecare

Pamela Valera, Sarah Malarkey, Nadia Smith, Christopher McLaughlin

PMID: 34524911 DOI: 10.1177/1357633X211034734

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Tobacco smoking remains an important public health issue in the United States (US), specifically among people who are incarcerated. There is little to no information about smoking behaviors of incarcerated people in rural areas and there is a lack of resources for smoking cessation interventions in rural settings. Telehealth might be efficient for delivering care to incarcerated people in rural areas. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of delivering group-based smoking cessation treatment via telehealth to incarcerated male smokers in a rural prison.

METHODS: A 6-week group-based smoking cessation treatment program was conducted with 1-month follow up. Video conferencing was used from Weeks 2-5 to deliver treatment. A cross-sectional survey was administered collecting measures including criminal justice experience, smoking behaviors, withdrawal and triggers, mental health, physical health, and substance use. Baseline exhaled carbon monoxide (CO) levels were collected at Session 1, and a final CO level at Session 6 and 1-month follow-up.

RESULTS: Twenty (

CONCLUSION: Telehealth programs such as video conferencing smoking cessation treatment ought to be implemented to reduce tobacco-related disparities among incarcerated smokers housed in rural prisons.

Keywords: Group-based smoking cessation treatment; incarceration; men; rural prison; telehealth

Publication Types

• Journal Article