Using flow diagrams to improve tobacco cessation programs

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to understand how the Wyoming Quit Tobacco Program (WQTP) is used by its subscribers and to better understand how WQTP might be connected to WQTP outcomes. Design/methodology/approach Provider intake and program use data corresponding to the May 2010 to March 2012 enrollment period (n=6,168) were used. All program flows were constructed using frequencies and crosstabs, based on an initial theoretical model prepared by the program provider. Data were adjusted based on analysis that explored all possible uses beyond those specified by the provider’s theoretical model. Findings Although the authors could replicate the structure – the theoretical model constructed by the provider – the authors were not able to replicate all relationships between program components. The authors also found that most individuals signed up and used web-based services. Only a few individuals finished their treatment regimens in the way they were designed to be used by the program. Originality/value This is the first case study to use a program flow method to investigate an entire comprehensive tobacco cessation program structure and delivery.