When should I refer a patient to specialist smoking cessation services?

Refer a patient to specialist smoking cessation services if they are willing to stop smoking and are seeking support, especially if they are more dependent on nicotine, as they are likely to need higher levels of support, medication, and multiple attempts at quitting ¹.

Offer referral to a local smoking cessation service or inform the patient how to access NHS Stop Smoking Services ¹.

If the patient is unwilling or unable to be referred, provide them with information and support, but a referral is recommended when they are motivated to quit and would benefit from evidence-based behavioural support and pharmacotherapy ².