Quitting nicotine can be one of the hardest health changes a person makes, and one of the most important. For patients who want support that is private, personalized and grounded in medical expertise, CU Medicine offers the Ambulatory Nicotine Cessation Program (ANCP).

The program provides one-on-one counseling to help patients reduce or quit nicotine use, whether they are just beginning to think about quitting or have tried before. Support is free, confidential and tailored to each patient’s goals.

What is the Ambulatory Nicotine Cessation Program?

ANCP offers individualized nicotine cessation counseling led by nationally certified tobacco treatment specialists. These specialists work closely with a patient’s primary care provider to coordinate care, including access to prescription medications and nicotine replacement therapy when appropriate.

“While cessation medications aren’t free, oftentimes insurance covers these medications, including over-the-counter ones,” shares ANCP program manager Aubrey Bush.

The program focuses on meeting patients where they are. Some participants want to quit completely. Others are interested in cutting back. Both paths are supported.

Who Can Participate in ANCP?

The nicotine cessation program is available to all CU Medicine primary care and specialty care patients. Reach out to your CU Medicine provider for a referral or call the Ambulatory Nicotine Cessation Program at (303) 724-8468.

Bush shares, “In the event you don’t qualify for this program, you can still reach out to us, and we can help connect you to the right program.”

What Can Patients Expect with ANCP?

Patients begin with an initial 60-minute consultation with a tobacco treatment specialist. During this visit, the specialist explains how nicotine affects the body and brain.

The session is also a chance to talk. Specialists use a patient-centered approach to explore the person’s nicotine use history, daily routines, stressors and triggers. Factors at home, work and life are considered because quitting rarely looks the same for everyone.

Interpretation services are available when needed to ensure patients can fully participate in their care.

Together, the patient and specialist create a treatment plan. This may include:

• Follow-up counseling sessions
• Medication support or nicotine replacement therapy
• Non-medication tools to help manage cravings and habits

How to Get Started with ANCP

Most patients access ANCP through a referral from their medical provider, but patients may also contact the program directly by calling (303) 724-8468.

Once a patient expresses interest, a scheduler helps set up an appointment with a tobacco treatment specialist. The specialist is added to the patient’s electronic health record, allowing for coordinated, team-based support throughout treatment.

Creating a Supportive Path Forward for Quitting Nicotine

“There is no single right way to quit or cut back on nicotine,” shares Bush. “We recognize that and have a host of tools to support patients’ individual needs.”

Patients remain in the program as long as it is helpful. When they reach their goals or decide to pause their quit journey, they graduate from the program with tools and knowledge they can carry forward.

For patients looking for expert guidance, compassionate support and a plan built around their needs, CU Medicine’s Ambulatory Nicotine Cessation Program offers a place to start.

Learn more about CU Medicine primary and specialty care clinics.