The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has announced a collaboration to enhance access to smoking cessation services for Medicaid members. This partnership will utilize the NMDOH's Quitline, 1-800-QUIT-NOW, as a central resource for those seeking help with nicotine use.
For two decades, 1-800-QUIT-NOW has been a reliable aid for New Mexicans aiming to quit tobacco and nicotine. Under this new initiative, Medicaid health plans, known as Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), will consolidate their cessation efforts by supporting 1-800 QUIT-NOW instead of maintaining separate programs. This unified approach aims to streamline services, reduce confusion, and improve care for approximately 832,176 Medicaid members in the state.
Alanna Dancis, Medicaid Chief Medical Officer, stated: “By joining forces in support of 1-800-QUIT-NOW, the Turquoise Care health plans are helping New Mexicans more easily end dependence on tobacco and nicotine, which can greatly reduce co-existing complications and improve overall health outcomes.” She added that this collaboration exemplifies the health plans' commitment to prioritizing their members and working collectively for the greater good.
The services provided by 1-800 QUIT-NOW include personalized coaching, free nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gum, and lozenges, culturally responsive strategies and tools for quitting all forms of nicotine including cigarettes and vaping.
Anthony Garcia, Director of the Nicotine Use Prevention and Control program for NMDOH said: “Medicaid members will now receive the same comprehensive quit support no matter which health plan they choose. This partnership allows everyone to focus on what matters most – helping people quit nicotine for good.”
While these services are available through Turquoise Care plans for Medicaid members, NMDOH also offers free quit support to all residents of New Mexico. Enrollment is possible by calling 1-800 QUIT-NOW or visiting quitnownm.org. Spanish-speaking residents can access services by calling 1-855-DEJELO-YA or visiting dejeloyanm.com.
