Digital Tobacco Cessation Program Achieves Remarkable Returns in First Year of Implementation
In a significant breakthrough for public health and corporate wellness, the EX® Program, developed by the Truth Initiative in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic, has demonstrated an impressive return on investment (ROI) in its first year of operation. According to a recently conducted study, organizations engaging with this digital tobacco cessation program witnessed a staggering 4.75 times ROI based on healthcare cost reductions. The analysis, which utilized medical claims data, provides strong evidence for the cost-effectiveness of the program in combating tobacco addiction—a major driver of healthcare costs and productivity losses.
Dr. Amanda Graham, Chief Health Officer at the Truth Initiative, emphasized the alarming impact of tobacco use on both individual health and organizational expenses. "Tobacco use remains one of the most preventable drivers of healthcare costs and productivity losses. Organizations cannot afford to overlook the impact of smoking on their bottom line. Helping people to quit smoking is not only good for promoting individual health but it's also an essential investment in any organization's financial wellbeing," she stated. These findings are especially crucial for businesses that are looking to improve their bottom line while also promoting a healthier workforce.
The study revealed that participants in the EX Program incurred an average of $950 less in healthcare costs annually compared to a control group made up of matched non-enrollees. When productivity changes among participants were factored into the analysis, that savings nearly doubled, bringing the total estimated savings to approximately $1,929 per enrolled participant. For B. Braun Medical, Inc., a key client, this translated to roughly $400,000 in total cost savings during the first year of their partnership with the EX Program.
The research was carried out by NORC at the University of Chicago and analyzed data from over 6,000 employees of B. Braun Medical, Inc. Using a rigorous propensity score matching method, the study ensured that the control group closely resembled the participants in demographic and medical history. This robust approach provided a clear picture of the tangible benefits that a well-structured cessation program can offer, both in terms of health outcomes and financial implications.
Notably, the EX Program isn't a new initiative; it has been in development for over 15 years and is rooted in evidence-based approaches to quitting tobacco. The program has been pivotal in helping over 12 million adults gain access to resources and support necessary for quitting tobacco products, including vaping—an emerging concern among youth. Through features like personalized quitting plans and community support, the EX Program has created an engaging experience for users of all ages, proving to be a game-changer in the landscape of tobacco cessation.
As the crisis of nicotine addiction continues to affect millions, public health organizations like the Truth Initiative are stepping up to innovate and provide solutions. The EX Program, with its extensive reach and effectiveness, stands as an example of how well-structured cessation initiatives can yield substantial benefits not only for individuals but also for organizations committed to fostering healthier environments.
The findings of the recent cost-effectiveness study reinforce the argument for companies to invest in health programs, particularly those addressing tobacco use. Enhanced well-being among employees often translates to lower healthcare expenditures and increased productivity, creating a win-win situation.
As businesses look for ways to enhance employee wellness and engagement, the EX Program serves as a reliable partner in this journey, combining advanced digital health solutions with a proven track record of success. To learn more about the EX Program and its impact, interested parties can visit the program's website at exprogram.com/enterprise. This initiative exemplifies a proactive approach to tackling one of the most pressing public health challenges today, paving the way for a healthier, more productive workforce.