IMPACT

Title: Implementation science to scale and sustain tobacco treatment leveraging point of care paradigm and health information technology (IMPACT)

The IMPACT study is a Phase I planning initiative designed to evaluate effective strategies for implementing evidence-based tobacco use treatment (TUT) for veterans. This research pilots two distinct approaches within clinics at four major healthcare systems to determine the most feasible and effective methods for connecting veterans with the support they need to quit tobacco.

Key Objectives of the IMPACT Study

Pilot Implementation Strategies

The study compares two methods: Referral to Specialist (RTS), which connects veterans with a dedicated tobacco cessation expert, and Point of Care (POC), where treatment is integrated directly into a veteran’s primary care visit.

Assess Feasibility and Reach

Through site visits, interviews, focus groups, and analysis of electronic health records, our team will quantify the reach of each strategy and gather crucial data on its real-world application.

Prepare for a Larger Trial

The findings from this pilot phase are critical for designing a future large-scale cluster randomized trial to definitively establish best practices for tobacco cessation support across the VA healthcare system.

A Collaborative Effort

This research is conducted in partnership with leading medical centers to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Participating hubs include:

  • Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)
  • University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
  • Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC)
  • VA St. Louis Health Care System (STLVAMC)

This project is administered by VREF and funded by the National Institute of Health (NIH)

To learn more about IMPACT and how you can join contact our research office at (314) 289-7690.

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