Minimal dataset for quitlines: a best practice

Abstract

Objectives:This paper discusses the development of a minimal dataset (MDS) for tobacco cessation quitlines across North America. The goal was to create a standardised instrument and protocol that would allow for comparisons and pooling of data across quitlines for evaluation and research purposes. Principles of utilisation focused evaluation were followed to achieve consensus across diverse stakeholder groups in two countries.Methods:The North American Quitline Consortium (NAQC) assembled a working group with representatives from quitline service providers, funders, evaluators and researchers from Canada and the United States. An extensive, iterative consultation process over two years led to consensus on the evaluation domains, indicators and specific items. Descriptive information on quitline service models, data collection protocols and methodological issues were addressed.Results:The resulting minimal dataset (MDS) includes 15 items collected from eligible callers at intake and eight items collected from smokers participating in evaluation. Recommendations for selecting evaluation participants, length of follow-up and repeat callers were developed. Full MDS questions and technical documents are available on the NAQC website.Conclusion:Adoption and implementation of the MDS occurred in the majority of North American quitlines by the end of 2006. Key success factors included a focus on utility and feasibility, a commitment to meeting multiple and varied needs, sensitivity to situational factors and investment in working interactively with stakeholders. The creation and implementation of a MDS across two countries is an important “first” in tobacco control which will help speed the creation of practice based evidence and facilitate practice based research.

Reach and effectiveness of mailed nicotine replacement therapy for smokers: 6-month outcomes in a naturalistic exploratory study

“…A live agent then completed a computer-guided brief assessment based on the minimal data set used by the North American Quitline Consortium 19. Participant demographic characteristics were collected and detailed measures of smoking history, current smoking behaviour and the Heaviness of Smoking Index (HSI) 20.…”

Use and Effectiveness of Quitlines for Smokers With Diabetes: Cessation and Weight Outcomes, Washington State Tobacco Quit Line, 2008

“…Seven-day and 30-day tobacco point-prevalence quit rates were based on a respondent's self-report of being tobaccofree for the last 7 days or more, or 30 days or more at the time of the 7-month survey (18). Abstinence rates were computed by using both the responder and intent-to-treat methodology.…”

Impact of Canadian tobacco packaging policy on use of a toll-free quit-smoking line: an interrupted time-series analysis

“…Age, sex, education, ethnicity, smoking status (daily or occasional), cigarette consumption, quit intentions and the Heaviness of Smoking Index scores were collected at intake for new callers. 20,21 We conducted an environmental scan of Ontario quitline promotion campaigns during the study period and identified the Driven to Quit Challenge as the only province-wide campaign that promoted the quitline. The Driven to Quit Challenge was a media campaign run in February that promotes Smokers' Helpline through a contest offering smokers a chance Other variables that could increase the volume of calls to the quitline included the January effect and tobacco pricing.…”