Patient interest in acupuncture for smoking cessation: a survey.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The most widely available treatment options to assist patients in smoking cessation are limited by side effects and moderate efficacy at best. Acupuncture may be an effective option for smoking cessation. The goal of this study was to establish the need for and interest in acupuncture therapy to potentially assist with smoking cessation from a patient perspective. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey study among patients aged 18 years or older whose medical record reported current tobacco use with English as their preferred language. REDCap surveys were administered to patients during office visits and included questions regarding opinions and use of all treatments available for smoking cessation (including acupuncture) as well as perceived barriers to acupuncture treatment. RESULTS: A total of 57 surveys were distributed, and 42 (74%) were completed. Most patients reported previous attempts at quitting (76%) and had tried a variety of treatments including nicotine replacement (45%), Chantix (varenicline; 23%), Wellbutrin (bupriopion; 19%), "cold turkey" (65%) and hypnosis (3%). No respondents reported having tried acupuncture for smoking cessation. CONCLUSION: When comparing treatment options, patients reported more interest in acupuncture than other treatment options with a statistically significant difference in the level of interest between acupuncture and bupropion. All barriers (cost, time and effectiveness) were equally rated on a Likert-type scale with a median of 50 on a 101-point scale.

Program Evaluation of Camp V.I.P: Promoting Self-confidence and Independence for Patients with Spina Bifida.

PURPOSE: Camp V.I·P (Victory, Independence, Possibilities) was established by the Spina Bifida Association of Alabama in 2012. The goal is to provide children with spina bifida (SB) and their families a traditional-style summer camp focusing on self-empowerment and fostering independence in medical self-management. DESIGN AND METHODS: Part 1 of this study describes Camp V.I·P. structure. Part 2 describes an online survey to caregivers of campers gauging camp effectiveness and value and evaluating perceptions of confidence/independence and family connections. Camper characteristics were compared to the overall SB clinic population. RESULTS: 63 children with SB, 81 siblings, and over 100 caregivers have attended camp. Campers are similar to the overall clinic population in race, gender, and ambulation status. At camp, there are significantly more children with myelomeningocele (versus other spinal dysraphism) and lumbar functional level (versus thoracic). Survey results show that confidence grew in 93% of campers, and 86% gained greater independence. Parents stated that they created lifelong friendships. The majority of caregivers (91%) indicated "certainty" that they would attend camp again. CONCLUSION: Camp V.I·P is a family-centered environment that emphasizes respite, nurture, and the continuum between family and clinic. Our research shows that camp can be a useful tool to aid in independence, confidence, and social adaption. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Camp has become an integral part of our comprehensive care of children with SB and has been shown to reinforce what is taught through the clinic by creating trust between the care team and campers.