Question 1

How is Triple Track different from other smoking cessation programs?

Accepted Answer

We regard tobacco and nicotine addiction as a “substance use disorder” -  a complex disease that needs to be managed rather than just a habit that needs to stop. Our vaping and smoking cessation program is therefore more comprehensive and intensive, using treatment methods that have been used effectively for people who are dependency to other substances such as alcohol and opioids. In addition, we extend the length of treatment longer than typical smoking cessation programs in order to prevent return to use.

Question 2

How long does the Triple Track program last?

Accepted Answer

The initial “Quitting Phase” lasts for 3 to 4 months, depending upon the person’s preferred pace. The “Staying Quit” lasts an additional 8 to 9 months.

Question 3

Do I have to commit to the entire 12-month program?

Accepted Answer

No. You can leave the program whenever you like.

Question 4

Is the treatment provided online or in-person?

Accepted Answer

Online. All individual and group sessions are delivered by telemedicine. Patients receive treatment by using a computer or smartphone.

Question 5

How old do you have to be to receive treatment?

Accepted Answer

18 or older.

Question 6

In what states does the Triple Track program operate?

Accepted Answer

Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Washington DC.

Question 7

Do I have to stop using right away?

Accepted Answer

No, we will work with you on an individual schedule. Most people prefer to stop gradually, and we can prescribe medication to reduce the discomfort.

Question 8

How do medications fit into your program?

Accepted Answer

Medications are not required, but we highly encourage using them because they increase the likelihood of a successful treatment outcome. Fortunately, there are several safe and effective medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. These include varenicline (Chantix), bupropion (Zyban), as well as nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges.  If the discomfort and distraction of cravings and other withdrawal symptoms can be eliminated, the patient is more able to focus on the important psychological work of recovery and treatment outcomes are improved.

Question 9

Can varenicline (Chantix) cause depression, suicide, or psychosis?

Accepted Answer

No. Well done scientific studies have disproved this belief, which was based on anecdotal reports. Persistent misinformation, however, have unfortunately made some people hesitant to use this safe and effective medication.

Question 10

Can varenicline (Chantix) cause other side effects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some people experience nausea and others have bad dreams. These problems are often temporary and if they persist, we are able to figure out ways to reduce the symptoms so that the medication can still be used. If this cannot be done, other medications are used instead.

Question 11

Can I just take the medications and skip the rest of the program?

Accepted Answer

No. Medications are useful but when used without any other treatment the outcomes are poor.

Question 12

Will I gain weight when I stop smoking?

Accepted Answer

Many people do not gain weight. Those that do, gain an average of 5 to 10 pounds. This can be offset by an increase in exercise. Here is a link for more details: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6534411 (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6534411)

Question 13

I don’t smoke or vape, but I use nicotine in other forms. Can Triple Track still help?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Triple Track helps people quit all forms of nicotine, including pouches (Zyn, On!, etc.), dip, chewing tobacco, gum, and lozenges.  Our approach combines therapy to manage cravings and stress, medication to ease withdrawal, and group support for accountability—all designed to help you quit for good.

Question 14

How effective is the Triple Track Program?

Accepted Answer

Almost all of our patients have been able to quit initially. Our longer-term staying quit results are more than 3 times the success rate of traditional smoking cessation programs.

Question 15

How much does your program cost?

Accepted Answer

Because Triple Track Treatment is in network with most health insurance plans, including Maryland Medicaid, the only cost for most patients is their copay and also their deductible if it has not already been met.  If we are not in network with your insurance company, our team can discuss payment options to allow you to access treatment with us because we do not want cost to be a barrier to treatment.

Question 16

What insurance does Triple Track accept?

Accepted Answer

We are in network with Aetna, CareFirst/Blue Cross, Cigna/Evernorth, Johns Hopkins/EHP, Maryland Medicaid, and United Healthcare/Optum. Our program is not covered by Tricare, Medicare, or Medicaid in states other than Maryland.

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