BACKGROUND: Smoking cessation support through dental personnel represents a promising yet understudied approach in Thailand. This study aims to evaluate the 'Dentist Hero' project, a collaborative program between dental personnel and the Thailand National Quitline service for smoking cessation support. In this system, dental personnel screen patients for smoking, give advice, and refer them through a Line Official Account (Line OA) application for Quitline counselors to provide telephone consultations and long-term follow-up.
METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed secondary data from all patients in the Dentist Hero project database between January 2023 and July 2024. The analysis focused on two aspects: 1) patient referral patterns through the Line OA application, with data recorded by Line OA administrators, and 2) patient response rates to phone calls and smoking cessation outcomes, documented by Quitline counselors. Descriptive statistics were employed to explain patient characteristics, telephone response rates, and smoking cessation rates of the Dentist Hero project. Chi-square analysis examined the relationship between referral patterns and patient telephone response rates.
RESULTS: Of the 2270 project participants, 970 patients answered phone calls and agreed to participate in long-term treatment (representing 42.8% of all referred patients). Among these, 690 patients were able to follow up. The continuous abstinence rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 28.3%, 29.2%, and 28.9% respectively. Using standardized forms with specific appointment times in the referral process significantly related to patient response rates (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: The Dentist Hero project demonstrated satisfactory smoking cessation outcomes among engaged participants. However, significant challenges remain in establishing initial contact with patients. Implementing standardized referral processes and providing active pre-referral counseling may enhance the project’s effectiveness.