The tobacco cessation program at Tennessee Valley Healthcare System is encouraging Veterans and their loved ones to participate in the Great American Smokeout on November 18.

The Great American Smokeout is a national observance that encourages Americans to enjoy a life free from smoking. 

"The Veteran population enrolled in Tennessee Valley Healthcare System has one of the highest rates of smokers in the VA health care system," Dr. Jennifer Devan, TVHS tobacco cessation coordinator said. " We are committed to lowering that number. Our professionals work together with Veterans to discover what works for them and tailor treatment options based on their needs and preferences. Our program uses evidence-based practices, including combining behavioral counseling and cessation medications."

Based on the latest data from VA, the reported smoking rate of Veterans in Tennessee and Kentucky decreased from 17.8 percent in 2019 to 16 percent in 2020. VA's national average in 2020 was 13.3 percent. Veterans interested in the TVHS Tobacco Cessation Program should talk with their health care provider to be referred or call 615-225-4733.

Scroll down for more on the TNVHS

 

TVHS is an integrated tertiary health care system comprised of two hospitals, the Alvin C. York campus in Murfreesboro and the Nashville campus, as well as 19 community-based outpatient clinics located in Tennessee and Kentucky. TVHS provides ambulatory care, primary care, and secondary care in acute medicine and surgery, specialized tertiary care, transplant services, spinal cord injury outpatient care, and a full range of extended care and mental health services.