DOD TriWest anti-smoking resources just click away

  • Published
  • By Tyler Patterson
  • TriWest Healthcare Alliance
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  The military estimates that roughly one-third of active-duty servicemembers are smokers. 

According to the American Lung Association, a smoker's bad health begins to improve just 20 minutes after quitting smoking -- and the sooner one quits, the greater the benefits become. That's why TriWest Healthcare Alliance and the Defense Department are here to help. 

The DOD has launched smoking cessation programs on bases throughout the U.S. and opened a brand new Web site dedicated to helping servicemembers "kick butt." The Web site, www.ucanquit2.org, tackles the smoking problem using tools and terms today's servicemembers are comfortable and familiar with. 

TriWest's Condition Management portal at www.triwest.com/beneficiary also offers a library of smoking cessation resources. 

A tobacco cessation program is offered by contacting the Luke Air Force Base health and wellness center. Individuals are able to sign up for individual appointments, and Zyban and nicotine patches are available to TRICARE beneficiaries from the Luke pharmacy. 

Appointments for tobacco cessation classes can be made by calling (623) 856-3870. 

Members' primary care managers may be able to direct members to other smoking cessation resources.