Maryland Quitline Offers Incentives to Help Pregnant Smokers Quit

The Maryland Tobacco Quitline, 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669), provides free evidence-based tobacco use counseling to Marylanders age 13 years and older, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A special part of the Quitline is the Pregnancy Rewards Program, specifically targeted at helping protect both the pregnant woman and her unborn child from the dangers of tobacco use.

In addition to the services provided to all residents who call the Quitline (see following paragraph), pregnant women can earn up to $90 in gift cards from the Quitline vendor for meeting the following requirements: for each series of three calls completed during pregnancy – $25 gift card (maximum of 2 series of calls/$50 total); for each call completed after the baby’s birth – a $20 gift card (max of 2 calls/$40 total). To participate in the Pregnancy Rewards Program, the Quitline must receive a faxed referral for the pregnant woman. The patient’s physician normally provides the referral to the Quitline, but in Garrett County, Early Care Program staff members are also certified to refer clients. Once the referral is received, a Quitline coach will call the patient within 48 hours.

The Maryland Tobacco Quitline will help you: learn the benefits of quitting, set a quit date and make a plan, stick to your plan by giving you tips to help with cravings, learn more about medicines that can help you quit, and find local classes or other support. In addition, the program will mail quitting assistance materials to you, send you web or text message support (if you are at least 18 years old), and provide a four week supply of nicotine replacement therapy (if you are at least 18 years old, and with your physician’s approval if you are pregnant.)

In addition to the special support and materials for pregnant women, there are also special programs for youth age 13-17, and persons with chronic conditions.

All calls to the Maryland Tobacco Quitline are private and free. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for more information or for quitting assistance. For local quitting assistance and programs call the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111.

For Immediate Release:  April 6, 2017
Contact Person: Diane Lee, PIO, 301-334-7689