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Reduction of Indiana Smoking Rate

On Monday, July 16, both FSSA and the Indiana State Department of Health combined efforts aimed at reducing the state’s smoking rate.

Acting on direction from Governor Holcomb, FSSA and the ISDH worked to improve access to and affordability of tobacco cessation products for Hoosiers wishing to quit smoking or using tobacco. These changes will enhance state’s infant and maternal mortality efforts.

FSSA Secretary Dr. Walthall and State Health Commissioner Kris Box, M.D., FACOG, were at the Eskenazi Health Center in Indianapolis, to announce the news. Dr. Box issued a standing order effective Aug. 1, which allows Hoosiers to purchase tobacco cessation products at state pharmacies without having to obtain an individual prescription. Dr. Walthall also announced that Indiana Medicaid will follow Gov. Holcomb’s directive to reimburse health care providers offering tobacco cessation counseling for expectant mothers. In addition, Indiana Medicaid will remove copayments for tobacco cessation products for pregnant women or members up to one year postpartum.

This is expected to impact the state’s infant mortality rate, which has been a top health priority in Indiana. Statistics show that quitting tobacco improves maternal and infant health.